Deputies in St. Landry Parish got some special recognition on Wednesday when they were presented with Officers of the Year awards.
Every year Crime Stoppers accepts letters of nominations from area law enforcement agencies then vote on the top officers. The awards are a way to show appreciation for the hard work the deputies have been doing, and not only give encouragement, but acknowledge that their actions are being seen.
The officers "often miss out on family events and even birthdays, never complaining while protecting and serving," the sheriff's office said.
The awards banquet was canceled the past two years due to COVID, but the sheriff's office said everyone was excited to meet in person again. The winners each received a plaque, certificate, a pin to wear on their uniform, and a gift certificate for their favorite parish restaurant.
"It shows that if you do good work, do your job, come to work, and put in your years and your time when you think people are not watching and noticing, they're noticing," said Sharonne Melancon, Assistant Communication Supervisor Dispatch.
Melancon, who was one of the award recipients, said she was shocked to find out she had won. The award shows her 10 years hasn't been in vain, she said.
St. Landry Parish President Jessie Bellard and District Attorney Chad Pitre, special guest, shared words of wisdom and accolades with the winners.
This year's award recipients are:
SUPERIOR OFFICER OF THE YEAR
Major Mark Guidry - Opelousas Police Department
CORRECTIONAL OFFICER OF THE YEAR
Deputy Cherika Albert - St. Landry Parish Sheriff's Office
CIVIL OFFICER OF THE YEAR
Deputy Allison Sibille - St. Landry Parish Sheriff's Office
SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR
Sergeant Quitin Doyle - Eunice Police Department
DISPATCHER OF THE YEAR
Assistant Supervisor Sharonne Melancon - St. Landry Parish Sheriff's Office
SPECIAL SERVICES OFFICER OF THE YEAR
Lieutenant Ashley Boudreaux - St. Landry Parish Sheriff's Office
DETECTIVE OF THE YEAR
Sergeant Brandon Harris - Opelousas Police Department
OFFICER OF THE YEAR
Captain Devin Johnson - St. Landry Parish Sheriff's Office
------------------------------------------------------------
Stay in touch with us anytime, anywhere.
To reach the newsroom or report a typo/correction, click HERE.
Sign up for newsletters emailed to your inbox. Select from these options: Breaking News, Evening News Headlines, Latest COVID-19 Headlines, Morning News Headlines, Special Offers
