Courageous and committed men and women in blue from the V.I. Police Department were honored at an awards ceremony Wednesday marking Police Week.
“I know the stories of these officers, and it makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand up,” said Deputy Chief Christopher Howell.
One of those stories is when Detective Frankie Ortiz was confronted with an armed driver pointing a gun at him. Ortiz grabbed the gun and a struggle ensued, but no one got shot.
“It’s a part of my job,” Ortiz said. “It’s all a matter of public safety.” He was awarded the Combat Cross award for performing a particularly courageous act when faced with an armed adversary.
Howell said there are many exceptional stories happening every day, some of which will go untold. Many recommendations were made and reviewed, and finally more than 100 officers and civilians were recognized and honored for their efforts.
“Police Week is one week where the community recognizes and pays tribute to the efforts of police officers,” V. I. Police Commissioner Novelle Francis said. “The officers deserve awards for making an effort and putting their lives on the line everyday.”
The awards were given at Government House in Christiansted for acts involving grave personal danger, highly unusual accomplishments and for laudable service to the department and community.
The Exceptional Service Award—for officers who have acted beyond the call of duty—was bestowed upon 22 officers, including Officer Akeem Newton, who was killed in a head-on collision on routine traffic patrol.
Other awards given included Wounded in Combat, Legion of Honor, Life Saving, Service, Civilian Service, Educational Achievement, Morale Booster and Certificates of Appreciation and Commendation.
One of the civilian awards went to Gary Thomas, owner of Paradise Waste, for contributions he has made to the VIPD.
“I believe in giving to the community and what will benefit the masses,” Thomas said. He gave two all-terrain vehicles and two trained police dogs.
Police Week wraps up Sunday with a beach day and barbecue at Altoona Lagoon.
