On May 7, 2008 more than 150 members of the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office who have excelled in their duties during the past year were honored at our annual awards ceremony. Eight law enforcement officers from other agencies and one civilian were also honored for their actions as part of Sheriff’s Office investigations or incidents. The top honors were presented to the following agency members: Deputy Scott Reid was honored as the Law Enforcement Deputy of the Year and his wife Renee was recognized for her efforts when the couple intervened in an armed robbery that took place in a shopping mall parking lot in February of 2007. Corporal John Hornak was honored as the Detention and Corrections Deputy of the Year for his oversight of the Inmate Healthcare Facility construction project Specialist Bob Detwiler was honored as the Forensic Science Specialist of the Year after he was selected by his peers as a professional role model and expert in his field. Laura L. Griffin was honored as the Jackie Clement Award Winner in Child Protection Investigations for her initiative and dedication to the work of child protection. Before the ceremony took place the certificates were prepared, invitation letters were sent out, and family members were invited to attend. As Sheriff one of my favorite duties is to present these awards, but while doing so I know there are many other members of our agency who act in an exemplary way each and every day. Sometimes we learn about these commendable acts long after they take place, and other times we never hear about them. I am frequently contacted by people who wish to tell me about a member of my staff who has performed their duties in an exemplary manner, or who went the extra step to be of assistance to a citizen. Many times the person offering the complement tells me they were not sure how to go about commending a Sheriff’s Office employee for their efforts. Like any other employer, I am always happy to hear about the good works of our members, but I also know that our employees enjoy a compliment as much as I do. Members of my staff are involved in thousands of calls for service each year, and we welcome commendations of all of our members who have performed their duties admirably. Commendations for any Sheriff’s Office employee are relayed to them by means of a letter of thanks or commendation. A copy is also becomes a permanent part of their personnel file If you wish to commend a Sheriff’s Office employee you can do so verbally by calling (727) 582-6200 and asking to speak with their supervisor. You can also e-mail our office by following the “Contact Us” link on our website at www.pcsoweb.com, or you can mail your comments to me at Sheriff Jim Coats, Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, 10750 Ulmerton Road, Largo, Florida 33778. |