DANVILLE, Va. – Eighteen Danville Police officers were recognized Tuesday for their bravery and dedication.
The special recognition came during the department’s annual awards ceremony. The men and women were honored for their commitment to cutting down crime and engaging with the community in 2019.
Danville Police Chief Scott C. Booth recognized officers not just from the local police department, but also from partner agencies for their exceptional service over the last year. Booth told the honorees what makes police officers special “is their willingness to spring into action and lead by example.”
Four officers received the department’s lifesaving award, seven were recognized with the department’s distinguished service award, while Roger Woody was named Officer of the Year. Chief Booth saluted each for their dedication to the community and their efforts in preventing crime.
Each received awards for distinguished service in criminal investigations, saving the life of another, and other outstanding achievements.
The recipients and their awards:
- Danville Police Department Partnership Award – William “Billy” Chaney and Special Agent Pete Gonzalves
- Officer of the Year – Off. Roger Woody
- Specialty Officer of the Year – Det. Randy Merrill
- Distinguished Service Award – Off. Jonathan Masi, Cpl. John Dixon, Cpl. Kyle Newcomb, Cpl. Harry Torres, Cpl. Richard Wright, Lt. Richard Chivvis, Lt. David Whitley, Capt. Henry Richardson
- Lifesaving Award – Off. Melissa Carey, Off. Gerrit Clay, Off. Matthew Gleber, Off. Ian Smith
- Chief’s Award (Officer) – Cpl. Derrick Lancaster
- Chief’s Award (Civilian) – Pierotti ‘Pepper’ Travis