Latest news with #DeputyoftheYear
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Yahoo
Cherokee County officers celebrated for outstanding service
BAXTER SPRINGS, Kan. — Cherokee County law enforcement are recognized for the services they provide to their respective communities. The annual Cherokee County Law Enforcement Awards Banquet took place Thursday night (5/15) at Bethel Church in Baxter Springs. Agencies represented were Columbus, Galena, Baxter Springs, and the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office. The event, which includes dinner and the awards ceremony, allows each agency to recognize those who go above and beyond the call of duty. Sheriff Brian Henderson made this an annual event in 2023, when he was chief of police in Baxter Springs. 'It's not just administration picking somebody, it's their peers that are selecting them and saying, 'hey, this person deserves it.' And that's important to us,' said Sheriff Henderson. 'You look back at your accomplishments and just to know that you're your friends that you work with every day have recognized your efforts that you're out there doing, because a lot of times, that stuff goes unnoticed, and so it's a good opportunity for them to see that they're appreciated,' said Galena Police Chief, Chad Allison. Each agency gave out various awards Thursday. Those included Officer of the Year, Deputy of the Year, and a life-saving award. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Yahoo
Peoria Sheriff recognizes deputy and correctional officer of the year
PEORIA COUNTY, Ill. (WMBD) — The Peoria County Sheriff, Chris Watkins, recognized two coworkers for their outstanding service on Wednesday. Detective Cody Meeks was recognized as the Deputy of the year in 2024, and Christian Reece was named Correctional Officer of the year for 2024, according to Watkins. Meeks started working with the sheriff's office in 2012 in the patrol division and became a detective in 2022. As the department's Crimes Against Children detective, Watkins said he successfully brought charges against multiple child sexual assault and pornography cases. His work was also recognized by the Pediatric Resource Center, which named him the 2024 Champion of Children. Watkins also said, as a member of the ATF Taskforce, he helped seize 198 guns, 14 Glock switches, two silencers and a significant amount of drugs, including meth, cocaine, heroin and marijuana. 'Detective Meeks, your dedication, professionalism, and relentless pursuit of justice make you an exceptional asset to the Peoria County Sheriff's Office,' Watkins said. 'We are proud to recognize you as the 2024 Deputy of the Year.' Christian Reece was recognized as the Correctional Officer of the year for his commitment to maintaining safety, security and respect. 'Your actions consistently embody the core values of the department, demonstrating leadership, fairness, and compassion in even the most challenging circumstances,' Watkins said. Watkins said his efforts did not go unnoticed by his peers, and the award is a token of gratitude for Reece's tireless efforts. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
28-02-2025
- Yahoo
Amarillo Rotary South names McBroom as 2024 Randall County Deputy of the Year
Surrounded by colleagues, friends, and members of Amarillo Rotary South, Randall County Sheriff's Office Deputy Ronna McBroom was honored Thursday morning as the 2024 Rotary South Deputy of the Year. McBroom's remarkable 21-year career with Randall County spans nearly every division of the Sheriff's Office — dispatch, corrections, transport, and patrol — exemplifying her dedication to serve the community she calls home. Deputy McBroom launched her career with Randall County in 2004 as a communications officer, then spent a year working in the Randall County Jail before returning to dispatch in 2007. During her time in telecommunications, she earned an Advanced Telecommunicator Certification, trained as a tactical dispatcher, and was deployed to the Gulf Coast for Hurricane Harvey, where she delivered vital communication support under extreme circumstances. Her drive to grow and adapt led her to jail transport in 2022, followed by a move to Randall County Patrol in 2023. Since joining patrol, McBroom has taken on additional specialized duties: she is a certified Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) member and a Randall County Hostage Negotiator, often juggling all three roles in high-stress scenarios. 'She is one of only two deputies in our department who have worked in dispatch, corrections, and patrol,' noted Randall County Sheriff Christopher Forbis. 'She understands the challenges at each step — what dispatchers face on the phones, what corrections officers deal with in the jail, and now what it's like on patrol. That unique perspective brings our divisions together.' Lt. Melvin Seymour of the Randall County Patrol Division nominated McBroom for the honor, emphasizing her calm nature, intelligence, and work ethic: 'Deputy McBroom is a vital member of the Randall County Patrol Division,' Seymour wrote in his nomination letter. 'She has received numerous commendations throughout her time with our office, and it's my honor to nominate her for this award.' Sheriff Forbis echoed that praise. 'We don't get into this work for recognition, but it's always meaningful when someone outside our ranks notices the sacrifice and commitment,' he said. 'Amarillo Rotary South does a wonderful job supporting law enforcement, and they couldn't have picked a more deserving deputy.' Growing up in Amarillo, McBroom admits she was a bit of a 'bad kid' in school. Her transformation into a respected deputy began somewhat unexpectedly when she was working at a local store in the county. 'I got to know several deputies who frequented the store,' she recalled. 'Seeing what they did every day — and how they helped people — motivated me to apply for a job at the jail. Although there weren't any openings at the time, I was offered a spot in dispatch. That's how it all began.' From her early interest in law enforcement to the badges she's earned since, McBroom attributes her success to a determination to serve her community, no matter where she's assigned. Accepting the Rotary South Deputy of the Year award, McBroom expressed gratitude for being recognized in her hometown. 'Any award means a lot, but this one is special because it comes from the community,' she said. 'I've been here for 21 years, and to be honored where I grew up is incredible.' When asked about her most meaningful experience, she pointed to her deployment in South Texas for Hurricane Harvey: 'I'll never forget how different agencies came together after such a catastrophe. It was heartbreaking, but it showed the best of humanity — everyone pitching in to help people who had lost so much. It reminded me of exactly why I wanted to do this job in the first place: to help people when they need it most.' As one of few women on patrol, McBroom encourages others — especially women — to follow their passion without fear. 'Don't let being a woman, your age, or any other factor stop you. If this is what you want to do, set your mind to it and go for it. When people see me in uniform now, they're shocked because I wasn't exactly the model student in school,' she joked. 'But we can all grow and make something positive of ourselves if we truly care about serving the community.' Now officially named the 2024 Rotary South Deputy of the Year, Deputy McBroom continues on with her long career with the Randall County Sheriff's Office. Those who know her say the award is merely a snapshot of her daily devotion — a testament to her unwavering commitment to the people of Randall County. 'She's been one of the best employees we've ever had,' Sheriff Forbis said. 'Our community is safer and stronger with her on the team.' This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Rotary names Ronna McBroom as 2024 Randall County Deputy of the Year
Yahoo
21-02-2025
- Yahoo
Okaloosa County Deputy of the Year responded to 1,900 calls for service in 2024
SHALIMAR, Fla. (WKRG) — The Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office recognized its top law enforcement officers and staff Thursday morning at its annual awards ceremony, honoring those who went above and beyond in 2024. Parents of teens injured in Panama City Beach golf cart crash file lawsuit Sheriff Eric Aden presented awards for outstanding service, highlighting deputies and employees for their dedication to public safety, community outreach, and crisis response. Among the honorees was Corporal Christopher Fordham, named 2024 Deputy of the Year for his commitment to public service. Fordham has worked in law enforcement for 17 years, including the last five years with the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office. Over the past year, he responded to nearly 1,900 calls for service — demonstrating his tireless work ethic and commitment to the community. As a community resource deputy and member of the North District Patrol, Fordham regularly steps up for critical roles, assisting his team whenever needed. Fort Walton Beach police chief selected to State Immigration Enforcement Council His leadership extends beyond law enforcement—he serves as vice president of OCSO Star Charities, where he helps organize charitable events, strengthen community ties, and assist families in need. Fordham's impact also includes leading community engagement events. He played a key role in launching the inaugural OCSO Florida Sheriff's Youth Ranch Clay Shoot, which was such a success that it is now set to become an annual tradition. Additionally, he led the first-ever Farm & Military Appreciation Event, which drew over 35 vendors, live performances, and interactive exhibits. The event was so well-received that it is already set to return in 2025. Fordham's dedication extends to some of the most vulnerable members of the community. As a member of the Okaloosa County Health Improvement Partnership POST Response Team, he has worked on the front lines of the opioid crisis, providing life-saving resources and harm reduction services to families in need. Fordham said serving the community is a privilege. 'You shouldn't take it for granted as a law enforcement officer, whether it's in the city, county or state, you, it's a privilege to go out and work and help and serve the community as best you can.' Santa Rosa County Sheriff's Office joins ICE's program on the crackdown of illegal immigration Other notable awards included: School Resource Officer of the Year: Deputy Mark Kane, honored for his leadership at Crestview High School, where he helped students in crisis and acted quickly during a school fire. Investigator of the Year: Investigator Tyler Colonna, recognized for his work in child abuse and overdose investigations, leading to arrests in high-profile cases. Momma Jo Hunter Spirit of Excellence Award: Investigator Deja Riley, a former Army Combat Engineer, honored for her crisis negotiation skills and mental health advocacy. Operations Bureau Outstanding Performer: Deputy Amy Gates, who handled nearly 2,750 calls and made 206 arrests while mentoring new deputies. Communications Officer of the Year: Heather Willoughby, recognized for CPR guidance during emergencies and assisting in a roadside birth. The awards also recognized administrative staff and volunteers, including Kimberly Blackmon for her legal work with Risk Protection Orders and Laurie Doughty, a former Air Force Senior Master Sergeant, who dedicated over 130 hours of volunteer service. Fordham said the recognition motivates him to continue serving. 'That's the kind of stuff that motivation like that that you just the next thing is right around the corner. You never know what it is. You just be persistent with it. And it's, you know, serve as best you can.' The Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office said the awards are a reminder of the dedication and sacrifices made daily by law enforcement. Community gathers to honor Kadance Fredericksen at candlelight vigil in Baker For Fordham and his fellow honorees, the recognition is meaningful, but the focus remains on protecting and serving the community. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
