Under the leadership of Assistant Commissioners of Police Deziree Phillips, Edward Broaster, and Chester Williams, the National Police Awards is hosted every year to recognize outstanding police officers and community members across the country. On Thursday, February 16th, the ceremony honored over 140 police officers, including nine police officers within the Coastal Executive Unit (San Pedro and Caye Caulker).
The 2017 San Pedro honorees included Police Constable (PC) Norman Coye, PC Adan Uh, Woman Police Constable Arelee Young, Special Constable (SC) Albert Lawrence, PC Kareem Staine, PC Kareem Martinez, PC Leonardo Yama, PC Dee Yarde, and PC Eric Wilder of Caye Caulker.
PC Coye also received an additional award for the most firearm and drug interdiction throughout the entire Eastern Division. Civilians Steve Schulte, and Flora Ancona also received awards for their excellence within the community.
Presenting the awards for the San Pedro Police Department was Officer in Charge of the Coastal Executive Unit, Assistant Superintendent Henry Jemmott. “All of our nominees in San Pedro were chosen by the high commanding officers that meet every Monday. We pulled all the names of the officers and we examined their attitude towards work, supervisors and other colleges, as well as their ability to complete tasks. We also evaluated their energy towards work, and their productivity. Every year, I praise the awarded officers so they can set the platform for other officers to strive for excellence,” said Jemmott.
Flora Ancona, San Pedro Town Councilor, received a civilian award for her outstanding contribution in helping fundraise for those who need assistance. She also accepted a business award on behalf of Schulte for his excellence at Tropic Air. “It always feels good to be recognized for something good. I would like to thank the San Pedro Police Department for the honor. My goal has always been to see the best for our community, so if I can help, I help. My hope is that everybody would do what they can to maintain our Isla Bonita. Together there is so much more we can accomplish,” said Ancona.
To celebrate the award winners, a Gold and White Gala was held on Friday, February 17th at the Princess Theatre. The attendees enjoyed a night of food, drinks and music. Throughout the night, the different police attachments honored respective members of their station and community.
OC Jemmott applauds all the effort of his fellow police officers. “I am elated that I got the honor to present such awards. This is not a thankful job, but you know that your call to service is a serious one. We are here to protect and serve San Pedro and the wider community. You leave home, not knowing if you will return. When you’re called service, you must serve people with respect, honesty, dignity, and transparency. My motto for this year is ‘intelligence led, and statistically driven’. If we review and analyze what we have done, and monitor the statistics, we can see a reduction in crime,” ended Jemmott.
Congratulations to the officers awarded, keep up the great work!
