Madison, Wis.—Today, State Representative Priscilla A. Prado (D-Milwaukee) presented Milwaukee Police Officer Eliel L. Contreras with the 2025 First Responder of the Year award during the Assembly floor session. Representative Prado has released the following statement:

Officer Eliel Contreras has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public safety, integrity, and community engagement in District 9 for over fifteen years. Since joining the Milwaukee Police Department in 2009, Officer Contreras has not only served with distinction in multiple critical roles, but is known for his professionalism, courage, and dedication to duty.

The First Responder of the Year award was created in 2019 to recognize the courage and sacrifice of those who serve in emergency services. Nominated by members of their communities, state representatives select one individual to be honored for their service on behalf of their Assembly district.

Officer Contreras has gone above and beyond traditional policing, building meaningful relationships with our residents and fostering trust between law enforcement and the community. Particularly as it relates to District 9, he has provided bilingual support to Milwaukee’s Spanish-speaking community, assisting in equitable access to essential services.

His volunteerism and mentorship within our community further reflects his deep compassion, generosity, and commitment to his service beyond the Milwaukee Police Department. I am pleased to have the privilege of honoring Officer Contreras on behalf of District 9.

The Wisconsin State Assembly passed a resolution declaring October 14th, 2025 First Responders Appreciation Day in Wisconsin.