September 2026 Officer of the Month

Congratulations to Officer Donna Hadzovic for being selected as the Officer of the Month for September 2026!

Officer Hadzovic is being recognized for her professionalism, initiative, persistence and unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of those she serves.

On September 26, Officer Hadzovic was dispatched to Belk Hall in reference to a BOLO issued by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department for a missing 14-year-old juvenile. Upon arrival, Officer Hadzovic immediately made contact with the juvenile’s father and began gathering information that could assist in locating his daughter. Throughout the incident, Officer Hadzovic demonstrated patience, professionalism and sound judgment. She carefully obtained pertinent information regarding the juvenile’s last known whereabouts and the circumstances surrounding her disappearance. As new information became available, Officer Hadzovic continued to reassess the situation and take appropriate steps to locate the juvenile.

When the juvenile’s location was later tracked to the area of the College of Health and Human Services, Officer Hadzovic and other responding officers conducted a thorough canvass of the surrounding area. Although they were initially unable to locate the juvenile, Officer Hadzovic remained persistent and continued efforts to establish contact and determine her whereabouts. About an hour later, the juvenile contacted her father and advised that she was safe. Officer Hadzovic assisted the father in establishing contact with his daughter and ultimately escorted the juvenile safely to the lobby, where she was reunited with her father. The father subsequently advised that he would contact CMPD to report that his daughter had been located.

Officer Hadzovic’s handling of this incident is an excellent example of the professionalism and dedication expected of members of UNC Charlotte Police and Public Safety. Her willingness to remain actively engaged throughout the incident, work collaboratively with the juvenile’s family and fellow officers, and stay focused on safely locating and reuniting a juvenile with her parents reflects great credit upon herself and the department.

Officer Hadzovic joined the department in May 2024. This is her second time receiving the Officer of the Month award. With this achievement, she is eligible for consideration for the Officer of the Year Award.

Congratulations Officer Donna Hadzovic on this well-deserved award.