In the heart of our community beats a spirit of gratitude and appreciation for those who dedicate their lives to keeping us safe. As we approach the annual Officer of the Year award presented by the Manatee Hundred Club, anticipation fills the air, and excitement brews as we prepare to honor the exceptional men and women who serve on the front lines of law enforcement. We want to make a brief introduction to the esteemed nominees, offering a glimpse into their unwavering dedication, selflessness, and commitment to upholding the values of justice and service.
For years, the Manatee Hundred Club has proudly recognized the exemplary achievements and contributions of our local law enforcement officers through the Officer of the Year award. This cherished tradition not only celebrates individual acts of heroism but also pays tribute to the collective efforts of our entire law enforcement community in safeguarding our neighborhoods and ensuring our well-being. As the anticipation builds for the upcoming award banquet, we invite you to join us in celebrating the courage, professionalism, and integrity of our law enforcement officers. This is a momentous occasion—a time to reflect on the countless sacrifices made by these dedicated individuals and to express our heartfelt gratitude for their unwavering commitment to public service.
Meet the Nominees:
This group of remarkable nominees for the Officer of the Year award embodies the highest ideals of law enforcement, demonstrating exceptional leadership, compassion, and resilience in the face of adversity. From acts of bravery that defy description to acts of kindness that touch the heart, these officers exemplify the very best of our law enforcement community.
For now, out of respect for the officers’ privacy and confidentiality to continue to do their job effectively, we have omitted the officer’s names and the agency. However, candidates are from the Palmetto Police Department, Manatee Sheriff’s Office, Holmes Beach Police Department, Homeland Security, Florida Highway Patrol, Florida Fish and Wildlife, Long Boat Key Police Department, Bradenton Police Department, and the Bradenton Beach Police Department.
Candidate #1
This officer joined law enforcement after serving in the Army and has been with PPD for 9 years.
Two Hit & Run cases (1 involving a child). This officer tracked down the vehicles, identified the drivers and made the arrests.
Candidate #2
This officer works violent cases. Utilizing all investigative techniques and databases at their disposal, was able to obtain warrants that took violent felons and prohibited firearms off the streets.
Candidate #3
This officer has been with their department for almost 2 years after serving in the Air Force.
In 2023, this officer joined the department with more than 276 citations, 30 DUI arrests and numerous drug arrests.
Candidate #4
Involved with a Community Impact Investigation (MSO, BPD, PPD, USCG & SPD) which obtained 7 arrests for Drug Trafficking and Gang Violence with seizures of firearms, drugs, and other prohibited items in Manatee County.
Candidate #5
15 year veteran for their department. In a child abduction case including a mother and father, this officer uncovered who was responsible for the abduction and arrested the parent for unlawful imprisonment and carrying a firearm in the commission of a felony.
Candidate #7
Native to Manatee County. Joined their department after serving in the Army.
2023 brought him 10 Boating DUI’s, 31 Resource arrests and more than 20 Derelict Investigations.
Candidate #8
After more than 6 years of investigation, this officer made an arrest in a Double Homicide that occurred at a local beach resort.
Candidate #9
In 2023, while investigating fraud (including elderly fraud) & embezzlement cases (over 278) which totaled more than $1.968 million in Manatee County made an arrest. Currently assigned to the Criminal Investigation Section and 16 years with their department.
Candidate #10
Working traffic enforcement, stopped and resulted in the arrest of a drug trafficker which prevented the drugs and paraphernalia from getting to our streets.
As we prepare to honor the Officer of the Year, let us take a moment to reflect on the profound impact that these dedicated individuals have on our lives and our community. Their service extends far beyond the call of duty, shaping the very fabric of our society and inspiring us all to strive for excellence and integrity in everything we do.
We look forward to the upcoming award banquet, where we will come together as a community to celebrate the accomplishments of our law enforcement officers. It is a time to show our appreciation, express our admiration, and offer our support to these unsung heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
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