Monee officials last week recognized the heroic efforts of a man credited with saving a woman’s life.
Monee Mayor Therese Bogs and Police Chief Scott Koerner presented the Village of Monee Citizen Valor Award to Dustin Valadez during Wednesday’s meeting of the board of trustees.
“On March 4, 2025, at approximately 6 p.m., Dustin Valadez was traveling on Ridgeland Avenue just north of Monee-Manhattan Road,” Bogs said.
“Dustin observed two vehicles stopped in the road. He slowed to see what was happening and heard a woman screaming for help. Dustin then saw a male and female wrestling. He immediately stopped and exited his vehicle.
“By this time the male subject was on top of the female and punching her. Dustin did not hesitate, he ran over and tackled the male subject, holding him down.
“It was then that he noticed the subject had a pair of scissors in his hand. Dustin held him firmly, protecting the female victim from further attacks and keeping the suspect secure until Monee Police arrived on scene. “He then remained with officers for over an hour, so that he could give a full statement to Detectives.
“The victim was transported to Franciscan Emergency and subsequently transferred to Stroger Hospital in Chicago,” Bogs continued.
“She was treated for multiple injuries and stab wounds. In her statement to officers, she was adamant, “That man saved my life!
“Dustin, your actions on March 4 were nothing short of heroic. You single-handedly stopped a violent attack and controlled the suspect until Police arrived on scene.
“A young lady is very grateful for your courage and for your actions. The Village of Monee is thankful that you were in the right place at the right time.
“Please accept this Valor award for the courage and honor you displayed on the night of March 4. Thank you Dustin!”
In addition to the plaque, Chief Koerner gave Valadez a new coat to replace the one he relinquished the night of his heroic efforts.
“You know, you were nice enough that night to give your coat to the detectives because they had to put it in evidence,” he explained.
“I hate to tell you this, but sometimes things don’t come out of evidence for years.
“Well, we got you the same coat, brand new. The police department didn’t want you to go running around, being cold while you’re out there rescuing people.”
Valadez accepted the plaque and the new coat quietly, but had no comments.