Madison Co. Youth In Action to hold awards ceremony for law enforcement

RICHMOND, Ky. (WTVQ) – The Madison County Youth in Action Team is calling for nominations for their Law Enforcement Officer of Year Awards.

The awards will recognize an officer from each of the law enforcement agencies representing Madison Co.: Eastern Kentucky University Police Department, Berea Police Department, Richmond Police Department, Madison County Sheriff’s Office and Kentucky State Police Post #7.

The purpose of the awards is to recognize officers who have gone above and beyond the call of duty, particularly in the enforcement of drug and alcohol-related laws. Additionally, it seeks to honor officers who exemplify the virtues of professionalism and dedication and have demonstrated a distinct pattern of community service to Madison County.

These will be special awards, as winners will be selected by youth participants of Madison County Youth in Action. In addition to an officer from each agency, the group will award one overall winner for Madison County. Each winner will receive special recognition and a plaque. This activity will be conducted in conjunction with Alcohol Awareness Month in April.

Nominations are sought from within each agency as well as the community and should be based on the following criteria:

1) Outstanding achievement in DUI arrests, traffic safety, DUI victim services, underage drinking prevention, as well as the enforcement of any other drug or alcohol-related laws;

2) Demonstration of the highest standards of police professionalism;

3) Participation in community service programs, particularly those involving youth drug and alcohol prevention.

To nominate candidates for the awards, email the officer’s name and a statement describing how the nominee meets the above criteria to Adriannah Willis, Madison County Youth in Action Youth Leader, at sissyjane@bellsouth.net or jenjenwebbyahoo.com

The deadline for nominations is April 29, 2016. For more information, please contact Jennifer L. Webb, Madison County Youth in Action Coordinator, at 859-302-4132. Funding is provided by a Y.E.S (Youth Empowerment Systems) grant.