Wyman's widow Lauren accepts the award on behalf of Deputy Kurt Wyman
/ New York State Sheriffs Association
ONEIDA CO. -- An Oneida County Sheriff's deputy killed in the line of duty is being honored eight months after his untimely death.
The New York State Sheriffs Association posthumously awarded Deputy Kurt Wyman their prestigious 2011 "Deputy of the Year" award. Wyman's widow Lauren, her mother and Wyman's parents accepted the award on his behalf.
The award honors Deputy Wyman for the ultimate sacrifice he made protecting the citizens of Oneida County.
The 24-year-old was killed June 7, 2011 on Knoxboro Road in the Town of Augusta following a standoff with 41-year-old Christian Patterson. Patterson allegedly threatened to harm both himself and his girlfriend when police tried to take him into custody. Wyman was killed by a single shotgun wound to the chest. Patterson was then shot several times by police.
Wyman's life Lauren gave birth to their daughter the day after his death. He also left behind a son who was only 18-months-old at the time of his death. Wyman was a decorated police officer and a corporal in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves who saw military action in Iraq.
Earlier this month, Christian Patterson was found guilty on all charges, including aggravated murder, two counts of attempted aggravated murder, criminal possession of a weapon, and harassment. He faces life in prison without parole when he's sentenced.
