University Police Officer Jacob Lyon recently earned the 2026 Traffic Safety Champion award from the Oswego County Traffic Safety Council.

The award honors a member of the community who demonstrates excellence in assisting  members of their community in the areas of traffic safety and pedestrian safety, and who is  constantly looking to help others in need, the council noted in its criteria. Lyon was honored for his part in ensuring a safer environment during the Oswego County Traffic Safety Council’s Awards Breakfast in Fulton in May.

While calling it “a great honor,” Lyon said contributing to traffic safety is his most important focus.

“I appreciate the recognition, but that's not why I engage in traffic enforcement,” Lyon said. “Law enforcement is, by its nature, a reactionary line of work where we respond to complaints and crimes after they have taken place. Traffic enforcement is one of the ways we can be proactive in the enforcement of our laws to attempt to reduce crime and increase traffic safety by educating the public on what contributes to vehicle crashes and fatalities.”

Some of the factors that contributed to crashes and deaths –- which traffic stops and education aim to prevent –- include driving while intoxicated or impaired, speeding, distracted driving and/or not using seatbelts, Lyon explained. 

Commitment to serve

Public service and helping others have been a lifelong interest for Lyon He grew up fascinated by, and admiring, those who choose to serve others, whether in the military, law enforcement, emergency medical service or other avenues. 

“I always wanted to help people and felt like police work would be the best fit for me to do the same,” Lyon said. “Too many people in today's world want to point out all of the problems, but when it comes to enacting change and being an example, many of those same people go silent. This is my way to be a positive example for the next generation.”

Lyon attended SUNY Morrisville, where he was first introduced to University Police and the opportunity to serve via that agency. After completing training at the Albany County Sheriff's Office Police Academy, Lyon joined SUNY Oswego University Police in June 2024.

“From the moment he finished his Field Training Program, Officer Lyon has consistently demonstrated exceptional work ethic, professionalism and a clear passion for police work,” University Police Lt. Kevin Ermann wrote in the nomination. 

“Since my arrival, I have tried to put my best foot forward in being a good example for the campus community,” Lyon said. “Traffic enforcement is critical to the safety of the campus community, especially on a larger campus such as Oswego, due to the large amount of foot traffic combined with the heavy vehicle traffic of locals who use the campus and frequent the surrounding local businesses.”

Ermann said Lyon has been successful in this manner, as “Officer Lyon comes to work each day with pride in his uniform and a strong commitment to enforcing the laws and ensuring roadway safety.” 

“In 2025 alone, he conducted over 300 vehicle  stops and issued 86 traffic tickets,” Ermann wrote. “His proactive enforcement efforts also led to 14 arrests under the New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law, including two DWI arrests and one vehicle stop that resulted in the discovery of a loaded firearm.” 

Beyond patrol duties, Lyon readily volunteers for high-visibility engagement campaigns and enforcement details on distracted driving in support of community safety. 

“Officer Lyon embodies the qualities of an outstanding police professional,” Ermann noted.” His dedication, initiative and consistent performance make him an exemplary candidate for this award. We greatly appreciate his hard work and his unwavering commitment to keeping our community safe.”

“Being out on the road as a reminder to drive safely is what is important to me, more than any award,” Lyon said. “The ultimate goal is to create a safe environment for the students, faculty and public alike.”