Recently, the Indiana Prosecuting Attorneys Council (IPAC) held its annual awards ceremony to recognize personnel from across the state for special awards. The ceremony includes awards for Outstanding Administrative Award, Victims’ Advocate of the Year Award, Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award, Law Enforcement Distinguished Service Award, Legislative Excellence Award, and Outstanding Service Award.
Detective Ben Rector was presented with the Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award. This award was given to Rector in recognition of his outstanding criminal investigations, dedication, and professionalism. Rector is a 12-year veteran of the Indiana State Police and graduated from the 70th Indiana State Police Recruit Academy. Upon graduation, Rector was assigned to the Lafayette District. During that time, he worked as a Field Trained Officer (FTO), K-9 Handler, and a member of the Mobile Field Force. In 2017, Rector was promoted to detective and currently serves in that position.
Rector was nominated for this award by the Tippecanoe County Prosecutor’s Office. In the nomination, they wrote, “Detective Ben Rector is the epitome of the consummate investigator who all prosecutors, victims, or other police officers want working on a criminal investigation. Ben is well known for his preparedness, thoroughness, and impeccable work ethic in every investigation in which he is involved.”
In response to the award, Rector stated, “I am humbled and honored to receive this award. It stands as a testament to the incredible teamwork and dedication of the individuals I've had the privilege to work alongside, including the Tippecanoe County Prosecutor’s Office and the law enforcement community. Their support and expertise have been instrumental in our shared commitment to serving and protecting our community. I am honored to work with such dedicated professionals.”
Detective Rector was accompanied by his wife, Donna Rector, who is a Sergeant with the Lafayette Police Department, his son, Braxton, and the Tippecanoe County Prosecutor, Patrick Harrington.
