SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WTVO) — Illinois Governor JB Pritzker honored law enforcement officers from across the state on May 29th.

Rockford's own Officer Jonathan Vargas and the late K9 Nyx were two of many officers awarded medals of honor.

"We honor the bravery of K-9 Nyx and the courage of Officer Vargas, whose actions embody the highest standards of law enforcement," said an Illinois official.

Vargas and Nyx were honored for their dedication to protecting the community. Nyx was fatally shot while chasing a suspect in January 2024.

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