Yesterday the EPPD held its Annual Awards and Recognition Program where we celebrated the past year’s new hires and award recipients.

Our seven newest officers took the ceremonial oath of office in front of family and friends after having taken the official oath of office on their first days as EPPD officers. We also celebrated the promotions of Sgt. Leslie Perez and Sgt. Evan Hynek.

Sgt. Ron Henke received the Chaplain Tim Power Award, named in honor of Father Tim Power who served as a Police and Fire Department Chaplain for 24 years before his death in 2016. The Chaplain Unit solicited nominations for the award which recognizes an employee who provides consistent care for people in the department and community, displays empathy when communicating with the public and fellow employees, demonstrates teamwork and exhibits actions that are engaging and encourages people to share themselves.

Det. John Andrews was named Officer of the Year for his lead investigator work on a number of challenging cases in the past year including several high-profile financial crimes.

The Civilian Employee of the Year was awarded to Juvenile Diversion Coordinator Randy Thompson for his commitment to the department’s Juvenile Diversion Program which he has managed since 2006.

Congratulations to all!