Memphis Police Department Medals & Bars Order of Precedence MEMPHIS POLICE DEPARTMENT Medals and Bars Order of Precedence 5
4
3
2
1
Service MedalAccidents Bar 10
Service MedalCombat Bar 9
Lifesaving Medal Bar
Medal Of Valor Bar
Medal Of Honor Bar
8
7
6
100 Club Medal of Valor Bar
Undercover Operations Medal of Merit Bar
Medal of Merit Bar
Department Officer of the Year Bar (Top Cop)
Director’s Award Bar
15
14
13
12
11
Department Supervisor of the Year Bar
Administrative Excellence Bar
Kiwanis Club Uniform Optimist Club Investigator Precinct/Bureau/Division Patrol Officer of the Year Bar of the Year Bar Officer of the Year 20
19
18
17
16
Community Service Bar
Peer Support Bar
Specialized Unit Bar
CIT Officer of the Year Bar
25a
24
Worksite CIT Officer of the Year Bar
23
22
21
Exemplary Service Bar (35 Years)
Campaign Bar (ex. MLK 50 Bar)
PST Service Bar
Unit Citation Bar
Armed Forces Service Bar
25f
25e
25d
25c
25b
Exemplary Service Bar (10 Years) 27a
Exemplary Service Bar (15 Years) 26c
Exemplary Service Bar (20 Years) 26b
Exemplary Service Bar (25 Years) 26a
Exemplary Service Bar (30 Years) 25g
Firearms Expert Bar (10 Consecutive)
Firearms Distinguished Firearms Distinguished Firearms Distinguished Expert Bar Expert Bar (5 Consecutive) Expert Bar (10 Consecutive)
27f
27e
Firearms Marksman Bar
27d
Firearms Marksman Bar Firearms Marksman Bar (5 Consecutive) (10 Consecutive)
28e
Exemplary Service Bar (5 Years)
27c
27b
Firearms Expert Bar
Firearms Expert Bar (5 Consecutive)
28d
28c
28b
28a
Driver’s Excellence Bar (9 Years) 29c
Driver’s Excellence Bar (12 Years) 29b
Driver’s Excellence Bar (15 Years) 29a
Driver’s Excellence Bar (18 Years) 28g
Driver’s Excellence Bar (21 Years) 28f
Years of Service Bar (25 Years)
Years of Service Bar (30 Years)
Years of Service Bar (35 Years)
Driver’s Excellence Bar (3 Years)
Driver’s Excellence Bar (6 Years)
Undercover Operations Medal of Merit
29g
29f
29e
29d
Years of Service Bar (5 Years)
Years of Service Bar (10 Years)
Years of Service Bar (15 Years)
Years of Service Bar (20 Years)
Medal of Merit
Service MedalAccidents
Service MedalCombat
Lifesaving Medal
Medal of Valor
Medal of Honor
COMMANDER
2019 Michael Rallings
Director of Police Services Memphis Police Department
Masters of Ceremony
Chief Meteorologist Ron Childers can be seen on WMC Action News 5 weekdays at 5, 6, and 10. A native Memphian
and second generation Mexican-American, Ron’s broadcasting career began in Memphis radio in the early 1980s at WRVR, then onto WMC FM 100. In 1989, Ron moved from radio to television as marketing and promotion producer and part time weathercaster for WMC Action News 5. His 20 plus years of forecasting experience have included working through some of the most memorable storms to move through the Mid-South. In 2000, Ron was awarded an Emmy for coverage of a winter storm that blanketed the area with snow. In 2005, Ron was honored by the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences with an Emmy nomination for Best Weathercast. And in 2010, Ron was again nominated for an Emmy for his weekly weather web chat on wmcactionnews5.com. Ron is a member of the American Meteorological Society and holds the prestigious AMS Seal of Approval. He is also a member of the National Weather Association, as well as the local chapter of the AMS/NWA Memphis. Throughout the year, Ron speaks to numerous schools, clubs, and civic groups. He serves as emcee and auctioneer for various fund raisers and he also volunteers his time with several charitable organizations. In 2011, Ron was awarded the Humanitarian of the Year Award from Diversity Memphis for his civic and charitable work in the community.
Joyce Peterson is an award-winning anchor and reporter for WMC Action News 5. She’s been delivering the news to Mid-
Southerners for more than 25 years. Joyce is a second-generation tv journalist, following in her mother’s footsteps. She graduated from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio and worked at television stations in Ohio and Illinois before moving to Memphis. Joyce is married to WMC Action news 5 Chief Meteorologist Ron Childers. When not at work, she enjoys walks along the Mississippi River with her dog, Ripley, and taking sunset pictures.
Program Events Presentation of Colors
MPD Color Guard
National Anthem The Peacemakers
Introductions
Lt. Colonel Dennis McNeil Sr.
Invocation
Dr. Howard E. Nelson
Introduction of Masters of Ceremony
Lt. Colonel Dennis McNeil Sr.
Ron Childress and Joyce Peterson Presentation of Awards
Director Michael Rallings
Special Remarks
Director Michael Rallings
Tribute to Honorees The Peacemakers
Special Thanks
Officer Stacy Faulkner
Closing Remarks
Lt. Colonel Dennis McNeil Sr.
Benediction
Dr. Howard E. Nelson
Administrative Excellence
Awards of Administrative Excellence are conferred for non-routine conduct of an administrative nature which surpass the responsibilities of the current assignment. This may include the implementation of a new program, redesigning a current program, etc.
2019
Administrative Excellence
Officer Matthew Williams Training Academy After attending Field Training Officer Coordinator School in 2019, Officer Williams spent countless hours improving, re-creating, and updating the F.T.O. Program and its many components. Officer Williams implemented a variety of ideas within the FTO Program. These include streaming the paperwork process, updating the FTO manual and creating online documentation. Officer Williams also created a detailed tracking system for all FTOs and probationary police officers.
Administrative Excellence
Officer Nicholas Maese-Murphy Training Academy
Officer Silas Billington Training Academy
In 2019, Officers Billington and Murphy implemented the P.S.T. Bar for Memphis Police Department “Police Service Technicians� or PSTs as they are commonly known. This team selected a ribbon, wrote policy, and created standards to recognize PSTs. After hours of research, meetings, and proposals, the PST Bar was approved and added to the Commendation Program in October 2019. Officers Billington and Murphy, former PSTs themselves, recognized the hard work and sacrifice required to complete the long journey from PST to Police Officer.
Administrative Excellence
Lt. Vonyale Montgomery C.A.R.T. Team
Lt. Robin Aubert-Hulley (retired) C.A.R.T. Team
Lt. Byron Braxton C.A.R.T. Team
Beginning in 2016, Lt. Montgomery spearheaded an effort to form a Child Abduction Response Team (or C.A.R.T. Team), within the Memphis Police Department. At the time Lt. Montgomery was assigned to Commission on Missing and Exploited Children Unit and knew all-to-well the dangers and vulnerabilities of abducted children. Lt Aubert-Hulley and Lt Braxton soon joined in and were able to help in the early stages and success of the CART Team. Through their tireless efforts and dedication to duty, Lt Braxton, Lt. Aubert-Hulley, and Lt. Montgomery oversaw the formation, organization, and ultimately national certification of the Memphis Police Department’s CART Team.
Administrative Excellence
Deputy Chief Sharonda Hampton Wellness & Resilliency Team
Lt. Colonel Lenora Armstead Wellness & Resilliency Team
Lt. Colonel Jeff Tow Wellness & Resilliency Team
This committee began its review of the Memphis Police Department’s Wellness Program and suicide initiatives in 2017 by conducting a wellness and self-assessment checklist. Over the last 24 months the committee made several recommendations and proposed key initiatives. Results included a new policy regarding officer wellness, and a federal grant of $100,000 was awarded to further training and development of the wellness program. The team also introduced a new Peer Support ribbon and created a digital app that allows members of the Memphis Police Department access to vital mental and emotional health resources.
Officer Michael Williams Wellness & Resilliency Team
Sgt. Essica Cage Wellness & Resilliency Team
Officer John Canter Wellness & Resilliency Team
Officer Stacy Faulkner Wellness & Resilliency Team
The Best in the
Country
The men and women of the Memphis Police Department sacrifice to protect the citizens and visitors of Memphis, TN. Because of their outstanding work, day in a day out, the department has become one of the finest in the nation.
Medal of Merit
2019 The Medal of Merit will be awarded to Memphis police officers who successfully perform extremely complex and difficult investigations, or who demonstrate exceptional skill and ingenuity in the apprehension of wanted persons; those who provide outstanding service to the public, or who continually achieve excellence in the performance of their duties.
Medal of Merit
Detective Tamara Bush Executive Admin
Detective Joshua Davis Executive Admin Beginning in 2017, several unsolved sexual assault cases were reopened and assigned to Detectives Bush and Davis. They reviewed the unsolved crimes and during their investigation, submitted several sexual assault kits for DNA Analysis. Detectives Bush and Davis were able to locate unknown latent fingerprints collected at the time of the original investigation and had them re-submitted for review. The latent fingerprints later returned with a match to a single male suspect. While researching the suspect, Detectives Bush and Davis were able to locate the suspect’s DNA that was collected in an unassociated crime. Upon submitting the suspect’s DNA for review, his DNA returned as a match in several of the unsolved sexual assaults. Detectives Bush and Davis displayed extensive research and dedication, and as a result of their investigation, they were able to solve numerous sexual assaults dating back as far as 1991.
Medal of Merit Sgt. Tony Parks Metro Gang Unit
Detective Maranda Jones Metro Gang Unit
Detective Christopher Malsom Metro Gang Unit
Detective Jaboa Childs Metro Gang Unit
Detective Byron Willis Metro Gang Unit
After partnering with the A.T.F. (Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms Bureau) the Memphis Police Department saw a need to create a unit to investigate gun crimes. A five-member team was created to review all N.I.B.I.N. (National Integrated Ballistic Information Network) cases. NIBIN contains digital images of recovered ballistic evidence from a weapon that has been fired. In 2019, this team did not hesitate to review over 1,270 cases. Through their detailed investigations, they were able to obtain a clearance rate of 42%.
Medal of Merit
Lt. Andre Pruitt Metro Gang Unit
Detective Derek Pittman Metro Gang Unit
Detective Marcus Walker Metro Gang Unit
Sgt. Brian Beasely Metro Gang Unit
Detective Justin Banks Metro Gang Unit
Detective Jesse Browning Metro Gang Unit
In 2018, M.G.U. (the Multi-Agency Gang Unit) began investigating the “Memphis Mob�, a gang with a history of violence and large-scale narcotics trafficking that stretched back to the 1990s. This team began their investigation with detailed research. This entailed reviewing old case files, talking with past investigators, and visiting countless incarcerated co-operators. This investigation led to the State of Tennessee’s first gang electronic surveillance operation. At the conclusion of this operation, this team was able to seize $282,000.00 dollars, 1,017 grams of cocaine, 22 vehicles, 21 firearms, and arrest 38 gang members.
MPD Canine Unit The Memphis Police Department Canine Unit plays a vital role keeping our community safe. The canine officers and their handlers help apprehend suspects, search for missing children and adults, and occasionally have a game of fetch with their favorite tennis ball.
Left: Officer Patrick Jones and Caesar. Above Left; Canine Officer Niko Above Right; Officer Kenneth Robinson and Nitro
Lifesaving Medal The Lifesaving Medal will be awarded to the officer, who by their actions, saved a human life or prolonged a life of a person for at least twenty-four hours under unusual and/or extraordinary circumstances.
Lifesaving Medal Officer Andrew Lenhart Austin Peay Station
Officer Dominic Starks Austin Peay Station Officers Lenhart and Starks responded to a vehicle crash on Covington Pike at Stage Road. Upon arrival they observed a pickup truck with severe crash damage and could also see the front end of the truck was on fire. Officers Lenhart and Starks immediately approached the vehicle and located the driver. He was unconscious and restrained by his seatbelt. Officers Starks and Lenhart cut the seatbelt and freed the driver. Both Officers pulled the victim from the vehicle seconds before it was completed engulfed in flames.
Lifesaving Medal
Officer Jacob Tilton Tillman Station On July 5, 2019, Officer Tilton responded to a shooting at 3201 Given Ave. Upon arrival, Officer Tilton located a victim lying on the ground bleeding profusely from his leg. Officer Tilton cut away the victim’s clothing and exposed a large gunshot wound. Officer Tilton quickly used his MPD issued “Pocket Medical Kit” and applied a tourniquet to the victim’s leg. The victim was transported to the hospital in critical condition but survived his injury, thanks to Officer Tilton’s immediate actions.
Lifesaving Medal Officer Valentina Sandberg Tillman Station
Officer Matthew Heisler Tillman Station Officer Andrew Gross Tillman Station On July 18, 2019, Officers were on routine patrol when they observed a suspicious vehicle parked near a closed business on Wells Station Road. Officers approached the vehicle and were met by the vehicle’s driver who stated he and his friend had been injecting heroine; now his friend was unresponsive. Officers Heisler, Gross, and Sandberg attempted to wake the victim but were unsuccessful. Officer Gross administered four separate shots of Narcan as Officer Heisler and Sandberg began CPR. After the Narcan was administered, all three Officers rotated performing CPR until the paramedics arrived. The victim gained consciousness and was transported to the hospital in non-critical condition. A Memphis Fire Department Supervisor later stated the use of Narcan, and CPR contributed to saving the man’s life.
Lifesaving Medal
Officer Christopher Williams North Main Station On May 16, 2019, N. Main Station officers responded to a shooting at 810 Breedlove. Upon arrival, officers located a male bleeding from a gunshot wound to his chest. Officer Williams obtained his MPD issued “Pocket Medical Kit” and placed a seal on the victim’s chest. He applied a gauze and pressure to another wound in the victim’s lower abdomen and held the pressure until paramedics arrived. The victim was transported in critical condition but survived his injures. A Memphis Fire Department Supervisor later stated Officer Williams’s quick action and proper use of his medical kit saved the victim’s life.
Lifesaving Medal
Officer Alfonso Perea North Main Station
Officer Jodi Ledford North Main Station
On June 18, 2019, Officers Ledford and Perea were dispatched to a shooting at 677 N. Dunlap. Upon arrival, officers located a victim with a gunshot wound to his upper leg. The victim was shock and losing vast amounts of blood due to the bullet striking an artery in his leg. Officers Ledford and Perea acted swiftly and applied a tourniquet to the victim’s leg. The victim was transported to the hospital in critical condition but survived his injures
Lifesaving Medal Officer Michael Nelson Special Operations
Officer Michael Duffee Special Operations On September 28, 2019, Memphis Police dispatchers received a call regarding a suicidal person trying to jump from a bridge and into the river near Mud Island. Responding officers arrived on the scene and spoke with the suicidal man. Meanwhile, The Memphis Police Department’s Harbor Patrol unit (Officers Duffee and Nelson) arrived and positioned their patrol boat under the bridge. The person stated he wanted to kill himself and jumped from the bridge and into the Wolf River. Officers Duffee and Nelson acted quickly and proceeded to where he entered the water. Officer Duffee jumped into the river and held the person’s head above water; Officer Nelson assisted in pulling both Officer Duffee and the suicidal person from the Wolf River.
Getting Out In Our Community
Medal of Valor The Medal of Valor will be awarded to the Memphis police officer whose act(s) exemplify heroism and valor. The officer must have demonstrated courageous behavior upon being confronted by a potentially dangerous adversary.
2019
Medal of Valor On August 13, 2019, Lt. Hopkins was approached by a male suspect who advised he had a child in his car and was planning to kill her. The suspect then sped away in his vehicle. Lt Hopkins issued a broadcast on the radio at which time Officers Butler, Hibler, Hightower, Johnson, Miller, Self, and Major Badgett checked the area and located the vehicle. Officers were able to locate the suspect and initiated a traffic stop. Upon stopping his vehicle, the suspect set the interior of the vehicle on fire and doused himself in gasoline. Before sustaining injury, the suspect exited his vehicle and was taken into custody. It was later learned the suspect had released the four-year-old child just before the officers located him, but after he spoke with Lt. Hopkins. It was also discovered the suspect had set the child’s mother on fire just prior to his confrontation with Lt. Hopkins. The actions of these officers not only saved the child’s life but helped solve a crime where the victim sustained extremely critical injuries.
Officer Centhya Butler Ridgeway Station
Officer Joeseph Hibler Ridgeway Station
Officer Nolan Johnson Ridgeway Station
Medal of Valor
Officer Lawrence Miller Ridgeway Station
Lt. Donial Hopkins Ridgeway Station
Officer Jonathan Hightower Officer William Self Ridgeway Station Ridgeway Station
Major Gary Badgett Ridgeway Station
Medal of Valor
Service MedalAccident The Service Medal-Accident will be awarded to the Memphis police officer who, as a result of accident causes during enforcement activities, have been seriously, critically, or fatally injured while in the performance of police duties.
2019
Service MedalAccident
Officer Dillon Story Mt. Moriah Station On January 25, 2019, Officer Stroy was dispatched to an accident on Winchester near Swinnea Road. While sitting in his patrol car completing paperwork, a Chevrolet Impala struck a parked P.S.T. patrol car. That PST patrol car then hit Officer Stroy’s patrol car. The force of the impact knocked Officer Stroy’s patrol car more than 50 feet from the point of the initial impact. Officer Stroy suffered a broken ankle that required an extensive time in the hospital, as well as multiple surgeries. The driver of the suspect vehicle was arrested for driving while intoxicated and three counts of aggravated assault.
Officer of the Year
The Officer of the Year bar will
be awarded to the officer who has shown exceptional performance in their unit throughout the year.
2019
Officer of the Year Officer Staten is an 11-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department and is assigned to Austin Peay Station. Officer Staten is an FTO and is proactive in handling calls in a ward that is one of the busiest in Old Allen Station. He has a great relationship with business owners within the Station and is highly respected for his work ethic and judgement.
Officer Michael Staten Austin Peay Station In his three-year career, Officer Looney has proven to be an outstanding officer and leader among his peers. In 2019, Officer Looney was nominated for Raines Station Officer of the Month on several occasions and was selected as the Officer of the Month twice. He consistently leads his shift in productivity, routinely backs up his fellow Officers, and is considered a strong and reliable presence on any scene. Officer Looney is committed to protecting and serving the citizens of Memphis and continually displays a tremendous work ethic.
Officer Chad Looney Raines Station
Officer of the Year Officer Martin is a three-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department. His kind heart and dedication make him an asset to the citizens of Memphis, as well as the Memphis Police Department. Officer Martin’s will to serve, zest for justice, and calm tenacity for his job, is why he has been selected as Mt. Moriah Station Officer of the Year.
Officer Raymond Martin Mt. Moriah Station In just over two and a half years, Officer Thomas has established himself as a leader on his shift. In 2019, he was nominated for Crump Officer of the Month six times and was selected as Officer of the Month twice. Officer Thomas is proactive and consistently leads his shift in arrests. He is an officer that leads by example and has quickly gained the respect of his fellow officers.
Officer Paul Thomass Crump Station
Officer of the Year Officer Neal is a 15-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department and is currently assigned to the Tillman Station. In 2019, Officer Neal became a field training officer to help set an example and provide training to young officers. Officer Neal conducts himself in a professional manner and welcomes the opportunity to serve the citizens of Memphis. Officer Neal is efficient and has refined his skills to the point he needs little or no supervision; he is truly an asset to Tillman Station.
Officer Clarence Neal Tillman Station Officer Roser is a 22-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department and is currently assigned to the N. Main Station, as Intelligence Officer. He is responsible for daily, weekly, and monthly reports that are submitted to the Memphis Police Department’s Command Staff. His reports require developing charts and graphs that are reviewed by the Command Staff as well as local and federal police agencies. Officer Roser’s work is vital in the operation of N. Main Station.
Officer Mike Roser North Main Station
Officer of the Year Officer Abdellatif patrols his ward in a pro-active manner, carrying out his assignments in an exemplary fashion. In his 11-year career, Officer Abdellatif is always above average in his duties and productivity and is an asset to his shift. In 2019, Officer Abdellatif was nominated for Airways Station Officer of the Month nine times.
Officer Mujahed Abdellatif Airways Station
Officer Fleites is a five-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department. In 2019, Officer Fleites was nominated as Appling Farms Station Officer of the Month three times and was selected as Officer of the Month twice. Officer Fleites demonstrates the qualities of a seasoned veteran who is always ready to work and takes pride in providing a service to the citizens of Memphis. He is proactive in his policing and is quick to volunteer for special assignments.
Officer Alexander Fleites Appling Farms Station
Officer of the Year
In just over one year as a Memphis police officer, Officer Smith has proven himself to be passionately driven to increase community awareness, maintain a positive attitude, serve and protect the citizens of Memphis, and aid in decreasing the crime rate within Ridgeway Station. Officer Smith maintains a strong work ethic and performs all duties assigned by his supervisors. Officer Smith is not only an asset to Ridgeway Station, but to the city of Memphis.
Officer Nathon-Micah Smith Ridgeway Station
Police Radio Dispatcher Linda Hollingsworth has been with the Memphis Police Department for eight years. During this time, she has performed beyond expectations. She is a standout employee who is just as efficient as she is consistent. Her strong work ethic and personal integrity are highly admired. P.R.D. Hollingsworth takes pride in the public safety profession and gives excellent customer service to the citizens of Memphis and our law enforcement officers.
PRD Linda Hollingsworth Police Communications
Officer of the Year
Officer Grandberry is a 20-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department. During this time, he has proven to be an asset to the department through his dedication and devotion to duty. In 2019, he worked with communities across the city on problems such as hunger, blight, police recruitment, and youth crime prevention. His excellent relationship with the community and outstanding investigative skills also allows him to make numerous arrests that influence crime.
Officer John Granberry COPS Detective Dabney is a 23-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department and is currently assigned to the Airways Station General Assignment Bureau, also known as Airways G.I.B. Detective Dabney consistently exhibits the highest degree of professionalism and possesses a true concern for the citizens he encounters. His commitment to the law enforcement profession is evident every day when Detective Terence Dabney he arrives to work. His written communications are precise and detailed General Invetigative Bureua and give account for the sequencing of events in a clear, concise, and chronological order. Detective Dabney works his cases to conclusion, which usually ends with an arrest. His clearance rate in 2019 was among the best in the department.
Officer of the Year Officer Saulsberry is an 11-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department and is currently assigned to the Violent Crimes Unit (or V.C.U.). Detective Saulsberry consistently exhibits the highest degree of professionalism and displays a true concern for the citizens of Memphis. Detective Saulsberry is always willing to take the lead on investigations and displays a high level of commitment to law enforcement.
Detective Jamal Saulsberry Investigative Services
Detective Christopher Beaty Multi-Agency Gang Unit
Detective Beaty is a 19-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department and is currently assigned to the Multi-Agency Gang Unit (M.G.U.). Since being assigned to MGU, Detective Beaty has quickly established himself as a very valuable asset, not only to MGU, but every bureau within the Memphis Police Department and with the federal government. Detective Beaty is a leader and a team player. Detective Beaty assists his team with information, even while off duty, without hesitation. Detective Beaty is asset in reducing crime and providing a safer community for the citizens of Memphis.
Officer of the Year Officer James is an 18-year veteran with the Memphis Police Department. He has dedicated his career to fighting crime and making a difference in the Memphis/Shelby County community. Detective James exemplifies the very essence of hard work and dedication. In 2019 Detective James was instrumental in solving a high-profile case that involved individuals selling fentanyl that was causing numerous overdoses and national media coverage. Solving this case resulted in over 30 arrests, 25 handguns being seized, and 101.8 grams of fentanyl being recovered. From working high profile cases, to training new police recruits and assisting in the management of the Memphis Police Department’s Organized Crime Undercover Team, Detective James is a true asset.
Sgt. Calvin Taylor Special Operations
Detective Ian James Narcotics
Sergeant Taylor, a 22-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department, is currently assigned to the Memphis Police Department’s “Special Events” unit. Sgt Taylor’s duties include planning, staffing, and supervising officers during numerous specialized events with zero, to minimal incidents. He has also been instrumental in planning and escorting high profile dignitaries, such as the President of the United States during his visit to Memphis. In 2019, Sgt Taylor processed over 500 permits and invoiced payments for non-permitted events that occurred within the city of Memphis. Sgt Taylor has always been willing to accept difficult challenges without cause and with a can-do attitude.
Officer of the Year
Sgt. Lee Potts Traffic Investigations Unit
Sgt Potts is a 22-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department and is currently assigned to the Traffic Division. Upon arrival to the Traffic Division, Sgt Potts quickly became a shift leader and proved to be a very intense investigator as he solved several fatal and critical injury crashes. Sgt Potts’ experience led him into 2019 as strong role model as he took on several roles while training new investigators. Sgt Potts always displays a positive approach to training, and the changing process of traffic investigation.
Officer Colbert-Williams is a 24-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department and is assigned to the Training Academy. Officer Colbert-Williams is the Tennessee P.O.S.T. Commission Coordinator for the Memphis Police Department and is responsible for maintaining records and requirements set forth by the POST Commission. This is a daunting task that requires extreme organization, impeccable record keeping, and maintaining a great relationship with the POST Commission. She is involved and responsible at every level of a Memphis police officer’s career from pre-employment hiring requirements, police recruit records, graduating recruits’ records, and other records for all Memphis police officers.
Officer Angelic Colbert-Williams Training Academy
MPD Mounted Patrol The Memphis Police Department Mounted Patrol is easily recognized everywhere they go. They help keep the streets of downtown, and the rest of the community safe. They respond to civil disturbances and help patrol special events.
From Left to Right; Officer Michael T. Brown on Jet, Officer Trace Rice on BB King, Officer Carl Johnson on Rufus Thomas, Officer Kelvin Briggs on Josey, Reserve Officer Earnest Greenleaf on Twister.
Supervisor of the Year
The Supervisor of the Year bar will
be awarded to the supervisor who has shown exceptional performance in their unit throughout the year.
2019
Supervisor of the Year Lt. Brown is a 23-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department and is currently assigned to Austin Peay Station. Lt Brown effectively communicates with his superiors, peers, and subordinates. He is a motivator, enforcer, and a community advocate. Lt Brown is optimistic and open to suggestions from his shift and strives to keep officers motivated as they perform their duties at Austin Peay Station.
Lt. Robert Brown Austin Peay Station Lt Owen is a 24-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department and is currently assigned to Raines Station. Lt Owen is a veteran supervisor and is highly respected by his peers, supervisors, and subordinates. Lt Owen handles numerous duties, which include supervision, scheduling training, entering daily shift statistics, and employee payroll. He is a mentor to young officers and has proved to be proficient in managing critical incident scenes, directing manpower, and engaging the public in a positive and profession manner.
Lt. Joe Owen Raines Station
Supervisor of the Year Lt Gray is a 23-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department. He is committed to delivering quality based customer service and sets the example for a highly productive and positive work environment. Lt Gray delivers innovative service by leadership, teamwork, offering effective training, and treating everyone with respect. Lt Gray performs duties in a professional manner and is an enjoyable individual with whom to work. Lt Gray’s work ethic and supportive influence is apparent by all officers assigned to Mt. Moriah Station.
Lt. Antonio Gray Mt. Moriah Station
Lt Herbison, a 24-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department leads by example. He is proactive and shows what can be done when a police officer truly cares and takes the extra steps necessary to do incredible things. He has earned the respect of his officers by being in the field with them, and by not asking them to do something he isn’t willing to do himself.
Lt. Jeffrey Herbison Crump Station
Supervisor of the Year Lt. Hicks is a 25-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department. His primary duties are supervising Tillman Station G.I.B. and Task Force. He is a valuable instructor and routinely teaches career development courses at the Training Academy. Lt Hicks is always available, even while on vacation. He has many positive work attributes, most particularly leadership, dedication, and reliability. He can be counted on to come in on short notice or to supervise a special event that needs extra attention.
Lt. Shawn Hicks Tillman Station Lt. Dunn is a 23-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department and is currently assigned to the Entertainment District Unit (E.D.U.), a unit that is under the command of N. Main Station. Lt. Dunn constructs complex, detailed operation plans for large events that encompass Beale Street and the area around Beale Street. Some of those include: New Year’s Eve Celebration, 4th of July Festival, Memphis in May Events, and weekly Beale Street operations. He has proven capable of handling any situation that may arise. It is through Lt Dunn’s guidance that Beale Street remains one of the safest tourist destinations in the world.
Lt. Jeffery Dunn North Main Station
Supervisor of the Year Lt Moses is a 31-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department and possesses impressionable qualities as a law enforcement officer, of which he exemplifies daily. He is looked upon by his peers as a leader, self-starter, teacher, and motivator. He is professional, polite, and has a pleasing personality. Lt Moses is enthusiastic about his career and often demonstrates exceptional work habits and leadership qualities by mentoring and teaching officers under his command.
Lt. Dexter Moses Airways Station
Lt. Anthony Lee Appling Farms Station
Lt. Lee is a 26-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department and has a genuine love for his job and the citizens of Memphis. He is dependable, punctual, and takes his supervisory responsibilities seriously. He rarely calls in sick and can always be counted on to work and get the job done properly and timely. Lt Lee holds officers under his command accountable and accepts nothing but the best performance from them. Lt Lee continuously demonstrates true leadership and does not shy away from his supervisory duties. He often demonstrates his desire to play his part to reduce crime by leading shift details and working with his subordinates.
Supervisor of the Year Lt Smith is a 26-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department and has served in any capacities during his career. Lt Smith performs multiple roles as lieutenant for Ridgeway Station. He leads dutifully and manages tasks and assignments without losing focus. Lt Smith leads by example and works tirelessly alongside the officers under his supervision.
Lt. Pete Smith Ridgeway Station Senior Police Radio Dispatcher Metrica Spears is a 17-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department Emergency Communications Bureau. She exemplifies the mission of the Bureau with unrelenting integrity, honesty, and extraordinary commitment. When she is not at work, she continues to represent the department well with community engagements and service projects. Senior PRD Metrica Spears provides exceptional support and service to everyone she encounters during her day.
SPRD Metrica Spears Communications
Supervisor of the Year Sgt Littlejohn is a 22-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department and is currently assigned to the Community Outreach Program or COP unit, where he has shown to be a strong leader. During his time with the unit, Sgt Littlejohn has helped to initiate programs that have both motivated officers and strengthened the bond between the police and the community. As a patrol officer, Sgt Littejohn was a founding member of the COP unit. His personal experience and knowledge have made the COP unit a better community policing unit.
Sgt. Wesley Littlejohn COPS Lt Mullins is a 31-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department and is currently assigned to the Homicide Bureau as Administrative Supervisor. He handles the day to day duties of the Bureau and assists other members of the unit when needed. He frequently teaches new police recruits at the training academy, as well as a block of instruction for each career development training session. He is currently developing a training curriculum for the Homicide Bureau, Violent Crimes Unit, Heroine Team, General Investigation Bureaus, and Station level Task Force Officers.
Lt. Anthony Mullins Investigative Services
Supervisor of the Year
Lt. Kevin Brown Multi Agency Gang Unit
Lt Brown is a 23-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department and is currently assigned to the M.G.U.-Gang Response Team, where he continues to serve his community with the highest level of distinction and professionalism. Lt Brown quickly established himself as a very valuable asset to MGU and is involved in a multitude of criminal investigations that include any crime a gang member may be involved in. The fluidity required to manage the day to day activities at MGU would have been insurmountable to any lesser leader. However, Lt Brown took on these challenges with vigor and gusto; his leadership allows MGU to function at the highest levels.
Major Cowans is a 32-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department and is currently assigned to Crump Station. In 2019, Major Cowans was assigned to the Organized Crime/Vice & Narcotics Team. While a supervisor in OCU/VICE, he was successful in leading the charge against prostitution, human trafficking, drugs, and weapons violations. Major Cowan has shown he is an asset to the Organized Crime Unit, the Memphis Police Department, and the city of Memphis.
Major Renwick Cowans Narcotics
Supervisor of the Year Lt Howard is a 20-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department and is currently assigned to the Memphis Police Department’s Air Support Unit. His responsibilities include maintaining the unit’s budget, working with mechanics, and designing training. Lt Howard’s dedicated service and tireless work ethic to the citizen’s Memphis is unparalleled.
Lt. Max Howard Special Operations
Lt. Delbert Polk Traffic Investigations Unit
Lt Polk is a 26-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department and is currently assigned to the Traffic Unit. As supervisor, Lt Polk takes the time to train new sergeants on how to properly conduct crash investigations where those involved are in critical condition or have been fatally injured. He also supervises traffic sergeants who investigate vehicle crashes that involve City of Memphis vehicles, and vehicle pursuits involving the Memphis Police Department. Lt Polk is also one of the few members of the department that can download Crash Data Retrieval Units and analyze the results.
Supervisor of the Year
Lt. Dennis Manning Training Academy
Lt Manning is a 23-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department and is currently assigned to the Firearms Training Unit. As supervisor for the F.T.U., Lt Manning oversaw the firearms portion of training for three basic police recruit classes, two regional police recruit classes, and yearly in-service firearm training for Memphis Police Officers. Lt. Manning supervised 15 staff members and effectively managed an operating budget of just over $1.4 million dollars with a 100% accuracy rate. In doing so, he secured contracts with multiple venders, ensuring that the FTU had the necessary tools and supplies to handle training needs.
CONGRATULATIONS OFFICERS & SUPERVISORS!
TACT Unit The Memphis Police Department TACT Unit is one of the most elite law enforecment units in the nation. They serve various roles from dignitary protection to high risk felony apprehension.
Director’s Award
The Director’s Award may be selected for a member of the department who has shown exceptional initiative, tenacity, and expertise while carrying out their duties. They distinguish themselves from the rest of the department through their exemplary service and progressive leadership. Their oustanding acts of community service contribute to the accomplishement of the Memphis Police Department’s goals. The recipients are selected by the Director of Police Services.
TopCOP
2019
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Awards Committee Committee Chairman
Lt. Colonel Dennis McNeil Sr.
Ceremony Supervisor Lt. Brian McNamee
Ceremony Coordinator Officer Stacy Faulkner
Photography
Brittany Scales
Certificate & Program Design Officer John Canter
Commendation Board Lt. Timmie Wilson Lt. Evertina Halfacre Sgt. Clarita Leake Sgt. Timeca Johnson Officer Kenneth McKnight Officer Susan Kirkland Officer Joseph Jackson Officer Kelly Bowen Officer Adam Bittick
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Proudly Supported by the Memphis/Shelby County Law Enforcement Foundation through partnerships and contributions from
Memphis City Employee Credit Union
FedEx Superlo Foods
Aquadro Distributing LLC Comcast
JNJ Express CBIZ Inc.
Flintco Graceland
iQor Turner Construction Company and special thanks to
Bellevue Baptist Church
MSCLEFoundation.org
Jim Strickland
Mayor of the City of Memphis