THE MEMPHIS P OL I CE DEPA R T MENT
COMMENDATION CEREMONY
2021
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COMMANDER
2020
MICHAEL RALLINGS
DIRECTOR OF POLICE SERVICES MEMPHIS POLICE DEPARTMENT
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MASTERS OF THE CEREMONY
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JOYCE PETERSON
RON CHILDERS
Joyce Peterson is an awardwinning 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 secondgeneration 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 Chief Meteorologist, and our co-MC, Ron Childers.
Ron Childers is a native Memphian and second generation MexicanAmerican; Ron’s broadcasting career began in Memphis radio in the early 1980’s at WRVR, then onto WMC FM 100. In 1989, Ron moved from radio to television as a marketing and promotion producer and part-time weather caster for WMC Action News 5. In the mid-90’, Ron pursued weather full time and went on to get his Certificate in Broadcasting from Mississippi State University. In 2011, Ron was awarded the Humanitarian of the Year award from Diversity Memphis for his civic and charitable work in the community.
PROGRAM EVENTS PRESENTATION OF COLORS MPD COLOR GUARD NATIONAL ANTHEM THE PEACEMAKER INTRODUCTIONS LTC SHARON CUNNINGHAM INVOCATION DR. STEVE GAINES INTRODUCTION OF MASTERS OF CEREMONY LTC SHARON CUNNINGHAM RON CHILDERS AND JOYCE PETERSON
PRESENTATION OF AWARDS RON CHILDERS AND JOYCE PETERSON DIRECTOR MICHAEL RALLINGS
SPECIAL REMARKS DIRECTOR MICHAEL RALLINGS TRIBUTE TO HONOREES MPD COLOR GUARD SPECIAL THANKS SGT STACY FAULKNER CLOSING REMARKS LTC SHARON CINNINGHAM BENEDICTION DR. HOWARD E NELSON
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
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MPD MEDALS AND BARS
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MASTERS OF THE CEREMONY
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PROGRAM EVENTS
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OFFICER OF THE YEAR
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SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR
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ADMINISTRATIVE EXCELLENCE
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UNDERCOVER MEDAL OF MERIT
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SERVICE MEDAL - ACCIDENTS
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LIFESAVING MEDAL
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ULTIMATE SACRIFICE MEDAL
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DIRECTOR’S AWARD
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TOP COP
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AWARDS COMMITTEE
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SUPPORTERS
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OFFICER OF THE YEAR
2020
The Officer of the Year Each year, an officer is selected to represent his or her duty station as Officer of the Year. Based on their performance throughout the year, officers are nominated by their commanders. The synopses that follow offer only a highlight of the officers’ activities, a representation of some of their best work. These Officers are the “best in blue.” We have 18 recipients for this award. 8
OFFICER OF THE YEAR
OFFICER DENNIS RODGERS AUSTIN PEAY STATION
OFFICER JAMES ZAPF RAINES STATION
Officer Rodgers, a 19-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department, is a proactive officer who comes to work early and is prepared to work. As a veteran Field Training Officer, Officer Rodgers’ trainees are well prepared and quickly become assets to the department because of his attention to detail and compassion. Officer Rodgers was recognized as Austin Peay Station Officer of the Month twice in 2020.
As a three-year veteran of the department, Officer Zapf has been a constant performer at Raines Station. He takes pride in the performance of his duties, and always treats everyone with dignity and respect. Officer Zapf is committed to protecting and serving the citizens of Memphis and has a tremendous work ethic. In 2020, He was nominated as Officer of the Month five times and was selected as Officer of the Month twice.
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OFFICER OF THE YEAR
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OFFICER JOHN YANCEY MT. MORIAH STATION
OFFICER JHUKURUIN COLE CRUMP STATION
In just over two years, Officer Yancey has established himself as an asset to the department. His kind heart, impartial attitude, and calm tenacity are some foremost reasons he has been selected as Mt. Moriah Station Officer of the Year. His yearly stats reflect his dedication to the department and the citizens of citizens of Memphis. In 2020, Officer Yancey was nominated as Officer of the Month four times and was recipient three times.
Officer Cole is a five-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department and was nominated as Crump Station Officer of the Month on three occasions. Officer Cole’s dedication to his job consistently places him at the top of the list in stats, even though he works in one of the city’s busiest wards.
OFFICER OF THE YEAR
OFFICER MICHAEL WARREN TILLMAN STATION
OFFICER STEPHEN MEDLIN NORTH MAIN STATION
Officer Warren is a 20-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department, and proud member of the U. S. Navy. He continually displays dedication, strong work ethics, and a positive attitude. Officer Warren conducts himself in a professional manner and welcomes each task his assigned. In 2020, Officer Warren was selected as Tillman Station Officer of the Month twice.
Officer Medlin, a 13-year veteran of the department, is a hard-working reliable and knowledgeable officer. As Crisis Intervention and Field Training Officer, Officer Medlin takes pride in the service he provides to the citizens of Memphis and to the new police recruits he trains daily. Officer Medlin is a mentor and takes the initiative to teach new police officers the importance of community relations and building strong relationships within the community.
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OFFICER OF THE YEAR
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OFFICER JOSEPH LEMMON AIRWAYS STATION
OFFICER JOSHUA THOMPSON APPLING FARMS STATION
Officer Lemmon displays exemplary patrol and enforcement tactics on the Airways Station “Bravo” shift. As a 12-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department, Officer Lemmon has proven to be an asset for Airways Station, having an eye for suspicious behavior and criminal activity. He is known for his enthusiasm in seeking out and successfully apprehending those responsible for crime.
Officer Thompson, a four-year member of the department. In only six-months of full duty service, Officer Thompson was nominated as Appling Farms Officer of the Month three times. He is a reliable officer who need s little supervision or external motivation to carry out his duties. Officer Thompson routinely leads the shift in stats and is often observed mentoring young officers. He demonstrates a strong work ethic and treats everyone with respect.
OFFICER OF THE YEAR
OFFICER ERNEST BURFORD RIDGEWAY STATION
PRD ERICA MAY POLICE COMMUNICATION
A five-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department, Officer Buford is passionately driven to increasing community awareness and protecting the citizens of Memphis. As a retired member of the U.S. Army, Officer Buford spends time feeding the homeless and collecting/donating clothing to the less fortunate. He is truly an asset to the Memphis Police Department and a solid example for others to follow.
P.R.D. Erica May not only has a great attitude, but a strong work ethic. A three-year veteran with Memphis Police Emergency Communications, PRD May is always courteous and arrives on time with a smile. In 2020, PRD May was pivotable during unprecedented civil unrest and high priority events.
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OFFICER OF THE YEAR
OFFICER SAMUEL NIEVES
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SGT MYRON GRAFENREED
COMMUNITY OUTREACH PROGRAM
GENERAL INVESTIGATIVE BUREAU
Officer Nieves, a five-year veteran on the Memphis Police Department and has been a member of the Community Outreach Program, or C.O.P. as it’s known, for two years. In 2020, Officer Nieves partnered with different programs and organizations and was able to receive, and then donate various necessities, including 35 gallons of hand sanitizer to the community.
Sergeant Grafenreed consistently exhibits the highest degree of professionalism and possesses a true concern for the citizens of Memphis. As a 17-year veteran of the department, Sergeant Grafenreed’s commitment to law enforcement is evident every day when he arrives to work.
OFFICER OF THE YEAR
SGT MILTON BONDS INVESTIGATIVE SERVICES
DETECTIVE MARCUS WALKER MULTI-AGENCY GANG UNIT
Sergeant Bonds is 23-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department and is currently assigned to the “Sex Crimes – Internet Crimes against Children Unit (I.C.A.C.).” Sergeant Bonds is the go-to person within any of the Sex Crimes units for advice with technology or search warrants. In a unit where high stats are not deemed an accurate measure of an investigator’s performance; Sergeant Bonds is consistently a high producer.
As a 13-year veteran of the department, and five-year member of M.G.U., Detective Walker quickly established himself as an asset to the Memphis Police Department. Over the years, Detective Walker has demonstrated exemplary leadership and tenacity. He is a team player and an efficient investigator. MGU supervisors recognize his talents and see the positive spirit he brings to the unit.
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OFFICER OF THE YEAR
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DETECTIVE LASUNDRA PRICE NARCOTICS
SGT CASEY KIRBY SPECIAL OPERATIONS
Detective Price is a 19-year veteran with the Memphis Police Department. She is motivated, ethical, and has a willingness to help. Detective Price has dedicated her career to fighting crime and making a difference in the Memphis-Shelby County community. She exemplifies the very essence of hard work and dedication.
A 24-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department and as member of department’s “Air Support Unit”, Sergeant Kirby is a F.A.A. certified flight instructor and is solely responsible for all quarterly flight reviews, including testing, grading, and evaluating for each Air Support pilot. In 2020, Sergeant Kirby received several accolades was recognized as the Specialized Unit Officer of the Month for the month of February.
OFFICER OF THE YEAR
SGT MARCUS MOSBY TRAFFIC INVESTIGATIONS
OFFICER TRACE CISNEROS TRAINING ACADEMY
Sergeant Mosby is a 24-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department and is an investigator for S.T.I.S. (Specialized Traffic Investigation Squad). Sergeant Mosby’s professional manner and attention to detail have quickly propelled him to be one of the most reliable investigators within S.T.I.S. In 2020, Sergeant Mosby was recognized as S.T.I.S. Officer of the Month on four occasions.
In 2020, Officer Cisneros was assigned as lead counselor for the 132nd and 133rd basic police recruit sessions. As an eight-year veteran of the department, he quickly took charge and professionally, efficiently, and flawlessly led these classes during an unprecedented time and the COVID-19 pandemic.
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JOIN THE BEST IN BLUE
I AM A MEMPHIS POLICE OFFICER I WILL SUPPORT AND UPHOLD THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, THE CONSTITUTION OF THE STATE OF TENNESSEE, THE LAWS AND ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF MEMPHIS, AND I WILL OBEY THE ORDERS OF THOSE APPOINTED OVER ME. I WILL DISCHARGE MY DUTIES WITH INTEGRITY. I SERVE A PURPOSE GREATER THAN MYSELF. MY SERVICE IS NOT MY JOB; IT IS MY CALLING. WHEN DANGER IS PRESENT, I WILL NOT FOLD, BUT WILL FACE IT AND CONQUER IT. I WILL OVERCOME MY ADVERSARIES AND WILL NEVER GIVE UP THE FIGHT UNLESS I AM CALLED TO A HIGHER AUTHORITY. I REPRESENT THE OFFICERS WHO HAVE LAID THEIR LIVES DOWN IN PROTECTION OF OUR CITY AND WILL PROUDLY CARRY OUT MY DUTIES WITH HONOR, COURAGE, AND PRIDE.
I AM A MEMPHIS POLICE OFFICER!
SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR
2020
The Supervisor of the Year
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Each year, a supervisor is selected to represent his or her duty station as the division’s Supervisor of the Year. Supervisors are nominated by their commanders based on their performance throughout the year. The synopses that follow offer only a highlight of the supervisors’ activities, a representation of some of their best work. These Supervisors of the Year are the “best in blue”. We have 17 recipients for this award.
SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR
LT MARCUS FRIERSON AUSTIN PEAY STATION
LT BYRON HARDAWAY RAINES STATION
Lieutenant Frierson has been a Memphis Police Officer for 24-years. Lieutenant Frierson is admired by both his subordinates and his peers and demonstrates excellent leadership skills. Lieutenant Frierson often volunteers to cover shifts; he handles scenes correctly and with great judgment.
A 32-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department, Lieutenant Hardaway is the model of what a supervisor should be: a teacher, leader, and roll model. He is excellent at managing crime scenes, payroll, and manpower. Lieutenant Hardaway often assists with call for service to ensure the citizens of Memphis receive the quality service they deserve.
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SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR
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LT THOMAS MOTE MT. MORIAH STATION
LT STEPHEN CUMMINGS CRUMP STATION
In his 23-year career, Lieutenant Mote has been assigned to several stations and is fully committed to the mission, vision, and values of the Memphis Police Department. He believes that proactive community partnerships and employee accountability promotes a positive public service image that helps deliver consistent, sincere, guardian-based customer service to the community.
Lieutenant Cummings has faithfully served the citizens of Memphis for 22 years. He is a leader among his peers and consistently displays patience and professionalism, a quality that has made him an asset to Crump Station. Lieutenant Cummings is committed to the citizens of Memphis, and values community relations.
SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR
LT TIMMIE WILSON TILLMAN STATION
LT DERRICK WILLIAMS NORTH MAIN STATION
Lieutenant Wilson was commissioned as a Memphis Police Officer in 1988 and has faithfully served the citizens of Memphis for 32 years. His personality, patience, and professionalism have made him an asset to Tillman Station. Lieutenant Wilson is a leader among his peers and is someone officers look to for wisdom and guidance.
A 28-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department, Lieutenant Williams is a true asset to North Main Station and the Memphis Police Department. During the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020, Lieutenant Williams displayed leadership and administrative skills worthy of the Supervisor of the Year. He leads by example, takes on additional responsibilities, and shares the workload.
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SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR
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LT REGINALD MORGAN AIRWAYS STATION
LT GEORGE CAVE APPLING FARMS STATION
Lieutenant Morgan has been a member of the Memphis Police Department for 35 years and has been instrumental in helping facilitate investigative initiatives that helped Airways Station G.I.B. lead all nine stations in clearance rates in 2018, 2019, and 2020. Lieutenant Morgan leads by example and works closely with his investigators, peers, and supervisors.
As a 22-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department, Lieutenant Cave has a genuine love for his job. He is dependable, punctual, and takes his supervisory responsibilities seriously. Lieutenant Cave holds officers under his supervision accountable and accepts nothing but the best from them. His is experience truly makes Lieutenant Cave an asset to Appling Farms Station.
SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR
LT MARCUS MITCHELL RIDGEWAY STATION
SPRD DERANECQUE ROGERS POLICE COMMUNICATION
A 27-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department, Lieutenant Mitchell proudly serves the citizens of Memphis. His fidelity and dedication to the department is unmatched and far exceeds expectations. He utilizes his experience, leads by example, and works tirelessly with officers under his supervision.
Manager Rogers has been employed with Memphis Police Emergency Communications for twenty years. As a second-year supervisor in a time of unsettling and distressing events, Manager Rogers met the challenges head on. Her exceptional commitment and devotion have rightfully earned her the distinction of Supervisor of the Year.
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SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR
LT WEBB KIRKDOFFER INVESTIGATIVE SERVICES Major Kirkdoffer has established himself as a leader and a credible, valuable member of the Homicide unit. As a 25-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department, in 2020, Major Kirkdoffer led his team through very difficult times and with an unprecedented increase in the number of homicides, the Homicide Bureau had a solve rate of 58%.
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LT MARLON TABOR
COMMUNITY OUTREACH PROGRAM
Lieutenant Tabor has served the citizens of Memphis for 32 years and has shown to be a strong leader in the Community Outreach Program. He has helped initiate several virtual learning programs that have motivated officers and strengthened the bond between the police and the community.
SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR
LT KEVIN BROWN MULTI-AGENCY GANG UNIT
LT TAURUS NOLAN NARCOTICS
In his 24-year career, Lieutenant Brown has worked in several stations and bureaus, and brings vast knowledge and experience to M.G.U. During the COVID-19 Pandemic of 2020, there were times he was the sole supervisor in unit, and oversaw the day-today operations of M.G.U. for most of the spring and summer of 2020.
As a 23-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department, Lieutenant Nolen leads by example and has been extremely instrumental in the development and growth of OCU. Lieutenant Nolen encourages his subordinates and peers to do their best and pushes them to excel to their highest potential.
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SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR
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LT ERIC HUSLEY SPECIAL OPERATIONS
LT DENISE JONES TRAFFIC INVESTIGATIONS
As a 30-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department, and T.A.C.T. Officer for over 23 years, Lieutenant Hulsey has tremendous wisdom and experience. A natural leader, Lieutenant Hulsey has been an outstanding asset to the unit providing supervision during high-tempo details and civil unrest. Lieutenant Hulsey is to be highly commended for his reliability, leadership, and determination.
Lieutenant Jones has faithfully served the citizens of Memphis for 38 years. She is among the elite as far as application of management and supervisory skills. Lieutenant Jones is responsible for several administrative duties in the Traffic office, including D.U.I. and S.T.I.S. Lieutenant Jones comes to work with a purpose of making better public servants of police officers.
SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR
LT CLEAVEN FOSTER TRAINING ACADEMY Lieutenant Foster is a 25-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department as has an established track record as a hard worker and great supervisor. His commitment to excellence has earned the admiration of his supervisors, peers, and subordinates by providing fiscal, strategic, and operational leadership for many years. Lieutenant Foster’s unwavering dedication and support for the Memphis Police Training Academy is evident in his assistance in day-to-day management of more than 50 Training Academy staff members.
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MEMPHIS POLICE TRAINING ACADEMY
ADMINISTRATIVE EXCELLENCE
2020
Academic Excellence
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Awards of Administrative Excellence are conferred for nonroutine conduct of an administrative nature, which surpass the responsibilities of the current assignment. This may include the implementation of a new program or redesigning a current program; we have nine recipients for this award.
ADMINISTRATIVE EXCELLENCE
SPRD MICHELLE GAYLOR POLICE COMMUNICATION
MANAGER SEAN LOVEJOY POLICE COMMUNICATION
In 2020, SPRD Gaylor implemented a new Quality Assurance Program for the Emergency Communications Bureau. She researched, designed, and implemented a specific program to enhance call-taker performance. When she began her research, the unit experienced an average of 49 “ring outs” per day, 2.6% of calls taken. A “ring out” is when a 911 call is not answered within 10 seconds. After implementing this program, the “ring outs” dropped to an average 21 per day or 1.27%; a drop of over 56%.
In 2020, Manager Lovejoy implemented two new webbased training programs. The first was PowerDMS, a program that allowed the Emergency Communications Bureau to push out policy changes and updates quickly and efficiently. Manager Lovejoy also implemented a new online training platform. This program allows trainees and training officers to quickly review and submit training reports online.
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ADMINISTRATIVE EXCELLENCE
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LT ISRAEL TAYLOR AUSTIN PEAY STATION
OFFICER SHONDRA BROOKS TRAINING ACADEMY
In 2020, Lieutenant Taylor was tasked with supervising “Operation Relentless Pursuit”, a joint operation consisting of local and federal law enforcement agencies. The operation focused on the capture of violent offenders from seven major U.S. cities. Lieutenant Taylor was responsible for the day-today activities of all officers assigned to the operation. He also developed spreadsheets and organizational charts to maintain records of all costs, equipment, overtime, and arrests.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Memphis Police Department’s Background Unit had to redo the way they interacted with applicants. Officer Brooks took the lead and created a new process to complete the applicant’s in-person portion of the hiring process and developed a new pre-hire testing plan that would allow up to 75 applicants complete pre-hire testing in one day. This proved invaluable for reducing both down time between applicants and allowing the unit to process more than 646 applicants in 2020.
ADMINISTRATIVE EXCELLENCE
OFFICER MATTHEW WILLIAMS TRAINING ACADEMY
LT TIMECA JOHNSON TRAINING ACADEMY
In January 2020, Officer began the process of updating all computers and projectors at the Training Academy. This included all classrooms and staff offices, at both the main building and the Firearms Training Unit. Officer Williams also began creating and automating several spread sheets used by staff members assigned to the academy. Some of the programs he updated included recruit schedules, rosters, curriculums, Field Training Officer forms, and in-service training.
In 2018, Lieutenant Johnson began the process to obtain nationally certified Field Force Operations (FFO) training for the department and implement training to all members. Because of her dedication and planning the Memphis Police Department is the only police department in the country with 12 certified FFO Instructors. In 2020, FFO training was implemented to all police recruits and police officers, as well as several local law enforcement agencies.
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ADMINISTRATIVE EXCELLENCE
OFFICER ROSETTA HUGHLEY TRAINING ACADEMY
OFFICER MARLUS STOKES TRAINING ACADEMY
With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the department was faced with a decision on how to continue mandatory inservice training. All in-person training at the academy had to be suspended and as a result, six weeks of training time was lost. Officers Hughley and Stokes were vital in the redesign and implementation of video-based in-service training. After training videos were in place and training schedules were completed, these officers worked diligently maintaining training records, roll calls, and schedules for over 1,500 attendees
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ADMINISTRATIVE EXCELLENCE
OFFICER ROBERT HENDERSON
TRAINING ACADEMY
With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Officer Henderson’s work has had a positive impact on the Training Academy’s ability to continue recruit and officer training. Officer Henderson volunteered to be the Training Academy’s Health & Safety Officer and handle OSHA/TOSHA updates and regulations. When the pandemic began, Officer Henderson created, organized, and maintained several accurate spreadsheets to reflect the current onhand levels of PPE and cleaning supplies required to keep the staff and recruits healthy. He followed current CDC recommendations, and made sure the Training Academy stayed within compliance. Officer Henderson’s hard work and attention to detail prevented the spread of COVID-19 in the Training Academy.
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UNDERCOVER MEDAL OF MERIT
2020
Undercover Medal of Merit
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The Undercover Operations Medal of Merit is given to Memphis Police Officers that have worked deep undercover to infiltrate and investigate dangerous criminal organizations from inside its source. These officers have had to assume new identities, severing all ties with the department and department personnel as well as subjecting themselves to involvement in criminal activity, which may include going to jail to keep their identities from being exposed. These officers have changed their entire lifestyles; from their appearances, to their daily routines, to being away from families and friends for extended periods of time. They must demonstrate exceptional skill and ingenuity in gathering the necessary intelligence to affect a successful investigation and/or criminal prosecution. We have three recipients for this award.
UNDERCOVER MEDAL OF MERIT
DETECTIVE RICHARD PAYNE Detective Richard Payne was selected to the O.C.U. undercover program in 2017 where he remained until 2020. He worked diligently in an undercover capacity to help fight drug organizations operating in the city of Memphis. Detective Richard Payne’s training and spirit of excellence helped eliminate known drug traffickers with successful prosecution. His selfless nature was evident when he gave up two years of his life to fight drug crime in the community.
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UNDERCOVER MEDAL OF MERIT
DETECTIVE DEDRICK BURNETT Detective Dedrick Burnett was selected to the O.C.U. undercover program in 2017 where he remained until 2020. He worked diligently in an undercover capacity to help fight drug organizations operating in the city of Memphis. Detective Dedrick Burnett’s training and spirit of excellence helped eliminate known drug traffickers with successful prosecution. His selfless nature was evident when he gave up two years of his life to fight drug crime in the community.
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UNDERCOVER MEDAL OF MERIT
DETECTIVE JOHNATHAN BOND Detective Johnathan Bond was selected to the O.C.U. undercover program in 2017 where he remained until 2020. He worked diligently in an undercover capacity to help fight drug organizations operating in the city of Memphis. Detective Johnathan Bond’s training and spirit of excellence helped eliminate known drug traffickers with successful prosecution. His selfless nature was evident when he gave up two years of his life to fight drug crime in the community.
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SERVICE MEDAL ACCIDENTS
2020
Service Medal - Accidents
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The Service Medal for Accidents will be awarded to the Memphis Police Officer who, as a result of accidental causes during enforcement activities, has been seriously, critically, or fatally injured while in performance of police duties; we have one recipient for this award.
SERVICE MEDAL ACCIDENTS
OFFICER JOSHUA THOMPSON
APPLING FARMS STATION
On October 26, 2020, Officer Thompson was dispatched to a vehicle crash on Interstate-40 near Sycamore View. While setting up traffic cones, a vehicle disregarded the cones and struck Officer Thompson. Officer Thompson flipped through the air and over the vehicle that stuck him. Officer Thompson was transported from the scene in critical condition. He sustained injuries to his legs, face, and back. After several surgeries, and after six months, Officer Thompson was able to return to work in July 2021.
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Lifesaving AWARD
2020
Lifesaving Award
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The Lifesaving Medal will be awarded to officers who by their immediate actions, saved a human life or prolonged the life of a person for at least twenty-four hours under unusual or extraordinary circumstances; we have 25 recipients of this award.
Lifesaving AWARD
OFFICER DEVERE HAWKINS RAINES STATION
On July 3, 2020, Officer Hawkins was handling a call on Loch Lomond Drive when a he was approached by a citizen. The citizen stated her seven-day old baby was not breathing. Officer Hawkins quickly cleared the baby’s airway and began CPR. After several minutes, the baby began to breathe on her own; MFD made the scene and transported to the infant to the hospital. This infant is alive today thanks to Officer Hawkins quick actions and training. 49
Lifesaving AWARD
OFFICER BRANDON JACKSON RAINES STATION
OFFICER JEREMY MACKEY RAINES STATION
OFFICER VORNELL MONTGOMERY RAINES STATION
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Lifesaving AWARD
On April 14, 2020, officers responded to a violent mental consumer call, where the suspect was vandalizing a vehicle with a hatchet. Upon arrival, officers located the suspect and were able to take him into custody. While on the scene, officers observed the home to be fire. Officers Jackson, Mackey, and Montgomery entered the home and found a bedroom door barricaded from the outside, preventing escape. Officers forced the door open and found a victim inside; his legs were bound, and he had several deep lacerations. Officers were able to free the victim and escape the home before it became fully engulfed in flames. 51
Lifesaving AWARD
OFFICER JUSTIN CRUTCHER MT MORIAH STATION
OFFICER BRAD ELROD MT MORIAH STATION
OFFICER DANIELLE MERRITT MT MORIAH STATION
OFFICER JOHN YANCEY MT MORIAH STATION
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Lifesaving AWARD
On September 12, 2020, Officers attempted to stop a vehicle for a traffic violation. The lost control and was involved in a crash. Officers Crutcher, Elrod, Merritt, and Yancey located the vehicle and upon checking the vehicle, determined the occupants were trapped and the vehicle had caught on fire. Officers were able to pull occupants from the vehicle just as it was engulfed in flames.
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Lifesaving AWARD
OFFICER CORTNEE CHRESTMAN MT MORIAH STATION
OFFICER KYLE LAMPLEY MT MORIAH STATION
OFFICER JACQUES ROBERTS MT MORIAH STATION
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Lifesaving AWARD
On August 6, 2020, Officers were attempting to arrest a suspect when he fled on foot. During the foot pursuit, the suspect fired gunshots at the officers, and they returned fire, striking the suspect. After the suspect was disarmed, the officers began rendering aid. They immediately checked the suspect and located a gunshot wound to his chest. Officers used their department issued “Pocket Medical Kit”; applied a chest seal and continued to render aid until the Memphis Fire Department made the scene. The suspect was transported to Regional One Health in critical condition, where following emergency surgery, he was upgraded to non-critical condition.
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Lifesaving AWARD
OFFICER TAYLOR COLEMAN TILLMAN STATION
On June 20, 2020, Officer Coleman was on a traffic stop when several citizens rushed to him and advised a house on was fire around the corner. Officer Coleman made the scene and located the burning house. He observed the house to be on fire, and large amounts of smoke coming from the roof. The citizens on the scene could not advise if anyone was inside the home. Officer Coleman called for the fire department and advised he may have a person trapped inside the home. Officer Coleman entered the home and found two locked doors. Fearing someone was trapped, Officer Coleman kicked open the doors and found two victims inside the rooms. Officer Coleman was able to help both parties exit the home without serious injury. The fire victims later stated they did not know the home was on fire and without Officer Coleman’s assistance, they would not have survived. 56
Lifesaving AWARD
OFFICER KAREN GIBSON NORTH MAIN STATION
On Friday, April 17, 2020, Officer Gibson made the scene of an overdose. Upon arrival she located the overdose victim on the floor, unresponsive. The victim was not breathing and did not have a pulse. Officer Gibson administered Narcan and began CPR. After several minutes of chest compressions, Officer Gibson could locate a pulse. Memphis Fire made the scene and transported to victim to Regional One health in non-critical condition. 57
Lifesaving AWARD
OFFICER ETHAN STEWART NORTH MAIN STATION
On February 9, 2020, Officers responded to a man down call where a man had fallen into the Mississippi River. Officer Stewart made the scene and located the victim in the river holding onto a hose to prevent himself from being swept by the freezing cold water. Officer Stewart climbed down to the water’s edge and pulled the victim to the pier. Officer Stewart then held the victim and used his own body heat to try and warm the victim. The victim was transported the hospital in noncritical condition, even though he had a body temperature of 93* Fahrenheit. 58
Lifesaving AWARD
OFFICER CHRISTOPHER WILLIAMS NORTH MAIN STATION
July 11, 2020, Officer Williams responded to a man down call on Seventh Street near Guthrie. Upon arrival, Officer Williams located the victim and observed him to be severely bleeding from both sides of his neck. Officer Williams retrieved his “Pocket Medical Kit”; wrapped the wounds and applied pressure. The victim was transported to Regional One Health in critical condition, but survived his injuries. 59
Lifesaving AWARD
OFFICER JAMES HARVEY NORTH MAIN STATION
OFFICER STEPHEN MEDLIN NORTH MAIN STATION
OFFICER ZACHARY JONES NORTH MAIN STATION
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Lifesaving AWARD
On March 15, 2020, officers were on patrol when they observed heavy smoke coming from the area of Neptune and Crump. They checked the area and located a semi-trailer fully engulfed in flames. On the ground beside the trailer they also located a victim, who was also on fire. Officers quickly worked together utilizing water bottles and a nearby creek to extinguish the victim. The victim suffered third degree burns and was transported to Regional One Health in critical condition. If not for the officer’s swift action, the victim would not have survived the fire. 61
Lifesaving AWARD
OFFICER JOSHUA TREMMEL APPLING FARMS STATION
OFFICER JOSHUA THOMPSON APPLING FARMS STATION
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Lifesaving AWARD
On March 3, 2020, Officers Tremmel and Thompson were dispatched to Bartlett Boulevard and Pleasant View, on an overdose call. Upon arrival, officers located the victim. He was not breathing and without a heartbeat. Both Officers administered Narcan and began CPR. After a few minutes, they administered another dose of Narcan and continued CPR. After several minutes, the officers could finally detect a faith heartbeat. Memphis Fire made the scene and transported the victim to the hospital in non-critical condition. 63
Lifesaving AWARD
LT GEORGE CAVE APPLING FARMS STATION
OFFICER ALEXANDER FLEITES APPLING FARMS STATION
OFFICER STEVE GARLAND APPLING FARMS STATION
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OFFICER CHASE MERRITT APPLING FARMS STATION
Lifesaving AWARD
On October 30, 2020, Officers Fleites, Garland, and Merritt were dispatched to a possible suicide call. They made the scene and checked the property but could not locate anyone. Officers completed a report and spoke with their supervisor, Lieutenant Cave. He requested they return and check again. Upon returning, they located the mother of the possible suicide victim. She advised no one else was at home but allowed officers to check the property. Upon searching the closed garage, officers located the victim, sitting in his car with the engine running. Officers were able to remove the victim from the garage without further injury. 65
Lifesaving AWARD
OFFICER MARIO CARRUTH MULTI-AGENCY GANG UNIT
On July 31, 2020, MGU detectives were conducting enhanced patrol around Firestone and Decatur. While checking the area, detectives observed a parked vehicle with the driver slumped over the wheel. Detectives checked the driver; he was unresponsive and not breathing. Detectives immediately began to render aid. Detective Carruth administered Narcan and began CPR. After a few minutes, Detective Carruth administered another dose of Narcan and continued CPR until Memphis Fire arrived. The victim finally regained consciousness and was transported to the hospital in non-critical condition. 66
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JOIN THE BEST IN BLUE
ULTIMATE SACRIFICE
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ULTIMATE SACRIFICE
OFFICER BOBBY MONTGOMERY
TILLMAN STATION
He was affectionally named the “Gentle Giant” for his caring and compassionate demeanor. Officer Montgomery was known for professionally and aggressively patrolling his area and was recognized for being a proactive officer who required little supervision. Officer Montgomery’s work ethic and dedication earned him numerous accolades during his career. He was selected as Tillman Station Officer of the Month numerous times and was selected as Tillman Station Officer of the Year in 2006. Officer Montgomery was a member of the Crisis Intervention Team, and was selected as Tillman Station C.I.T. Officer of the Year in 2008. Unfortunately, On August 16, 2020, Officer Montgomery succumbed to the virus known as COVID-19. The Memphis Police Department continues to mourn his loss; he was a great asset to Tillman Station, the citizens of Memphis, and the Memphis Police Department. Officer Montgomery leaves behind a wife and three children. At this time Director Rallings will present the “Ultimate Sacrifice Medal” to the family of Officer Bobby Montgomery.
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NT ME MP HI S PO LIC E DE PA RT ME
D IR EC TO R’ S AWA R D
2020
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 exemplary service and progressive leadership. Their outstanding acts of community service contribute to the acomplishment of the Memphis Police Department’s goals. The recipients are selected by the Director of Police Services.
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2020
MPD OFFICER OF THE YEAR
“TOP COP” Each year, a supervisor is selected to represent his or her duty station as the division’s Supervisor of the Year. Supervisors are nominated by their commanders based on their performance throughout the year.
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AWARDS COMMITTEE COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN LTC SHARON CUNNINGHAM CEREMONY SUPERVISOR LT CLEAVEN FOSTER CEREMONY COORDINATOR SGT STACY FAULKNER PHOTOGRAPHY BRITTNEY SCALES MPD PHOTO LAB MPD PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE PROGRAM DESIGN HELEN QUISENBERRY
COMMENDATION BOARD LT EVERTINA HALFACRE LT CASEY MINGA
SGT BENJAMIN O’BRIEN SGT LECHELLE CLARK OFFICER SETH JONEAS OFFICER JACQUELINE SMITH-BOYLAND OFFICER NAMIKA JOHNSON OFFICER LATOSHIA LIVELY 74
PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MEMPHIS / SHELBY COUNTY LAW ENFORCEMENT FOUNDATION
MSCLEFoundation.org
THROUGH PARTNERSHIPS AND CONTRIBUTIONS FROM
GRACELAND STEPHERSON’S FOOD STORES MEMPHIS CITY EMPLOYEE CREDIT UNION
SPECIAL THANKS TO
BELLEVUE BAPTIST CHURCH
PAT’S PRINTS ADVERTISING ART COMPANY 75
JIM STRICKLAND
MAYOR OF THE CITY OF MEMPHIS
