07/13/2026
Past Honoree Spotlight: Jen Zinge Retired Detective, Pinellas County Sheriff's Office.
We recently caught up with past honoree Jennifer (Williams) Zinge, who received the John Morroni Law Enforcement Appreciation Award in 2001 for her work on a bank robbery investigation involving the serial bank robber known as the “Santa Claus Bandit.”
As we prepare for the 30th Annual John Morroni Law Enforcement & First Responder Appreciation Dinner, Jennifer reflected on what the recognition meant to her, where life has taken her since, and the lasting impact of John Morroni’s legacy.
What year were you recognized?
“I was honored to receive the John Morroni Law Enforcement Appreciation Award in 2001 for a bank robbery investigation involving the serial bank robber known as the ‘Santa Claus Bandit'.”
What do you remember most about that evening?
“What I remember most was the overwhelming sense of pride and gratitude. Being surrounded by fellow law enforcement officers, community leaders, family, and supporters reminded me that policing is truly a team effort. It was humbling to be recognized among so many dedicated professionals.”
What did it mean to you to be recognized by your peers and the community?
“The recognition meant a great deal. Awards are never earned alone. They reflect the support of supervisors, partners, mentors, family members, and the citizens we work to protect. It reinforced my commitment to serving with integrity, professionalism, and compassion.”
Where are you now in your career or life?
“Today, I am retired after 25 years in law enforcement, including many years as a detective investigating complex and often difficult cases. While I have stepped away from active policing, I remain passionate about helping others.
My focus now is on health, wellness, and longevity, particularly supporting first responders and others who have dedicated their lives to serving their communities. I am an independent distributor for an innovative medical technology company, BEMER Group. (Zinge.bemergroup.com)
After personally experiencing improvements in my sleep, stress management, and overall injury recovery, I became passionate about sharing this non-invasive technology with others. What especially interests me is its potential role in supporting the long-term wellness and resilience of first responder professions where quality sleep, stress management, recovery, and longevity are often overlooked.
My husband also dedicated 33 years to the fire service, so serving those who serve remains close to my heart.”
What message would you share with today’s first responders?
“Never underestimate the impact you have on the people you serve. The job can be demanding, stressful, and, at times, thankless, but your work matters. Take care of your physical and mental health, lean on your support systems, and remember that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. You cannot pour from an empty cup.”
What does John Morroni’s legacy mean to you?
“John Morroni’s legacy represents dedication, courage, integrity, and selfless service to others. His commitment to protecting his community and supporting fellow officers continues to inspire generations of law enforcement professionals. To have received an award bearing his name is an honor that I have carried with me throughout my career and into retirement. His legacy reminds us that true leadership is measured not only by what we accomplish, but by the lives we impact along the way. I personally knew John and was fortunate to work with him for seven years, as I was assigned to our elected officials post-9/11. He, along with Eileen and Mike, was a very special friend to my family and me.”
Thank you, Jennifer (Williams) Zinge, for your 25 years of service, your continued commitment to supporting first responders, and for being part of the John Morroni Legacy Foundation’s 30-year tradition of honoring law enforcement and first responders.
Read more about Charles Booth, the “Santa Claus Bandit”: https://www.tampabay.com/.../bank-robbery-suspect-arrested/
