Chief Scott C. Booth recognized several women and men of the Danville Police Department and for their exceptional service in 2020. Chief Booth also honored individuals from partner agencies for their significant contribution to the Department’s crime reduction or community engagement efforts.
In his closing remarks, Chief Booth said, “2020 was a remarkable year. I talk to many people in my travels and I tell them, do not underestimate the Danville Police Department. Then I back that up with our crime data showing 35 year lows. I show them what we have done in our community through our community engagement programs. It makes me proud, and it is not just about our officers, but also our partners.”
Officers received awards for distinguished service in special projects, saving the life of another, and other outstanding achievements. Here is a list of the awards and the recipients:
- Unit Commendation - Property Crimes – Lt. Michael Wallace, Off. Peter Bailey, Lt. John Pulley, Det. Randy Merrill, Cpl. Benjamin Langley, Det. Roger Woody
- Unit Commendation - Vice Narcotics – Lt. David Whitley, Cpl. William Shively, Sgt. Jonathan Epps, Det. Tyrone Russell, Cpl. Derrick Lancaster
- Meritorious Service Medal – Cpl. Samanthia Wiles-Lipscomb
- Officer of the Year – Off. Jesse Booth
- Specialty Officer of the Year – Cpl. William Shively
- Supervisor of the Year – Lt. Johnny West
- Life Saving Medal – Off. Jesse Booth, Off. Walker Eason, Off. Gerritt Clay, Off. Jordan Land
- Partnership Award – Norma Brower (Danville Community Development Department), Melanie Tosh (Danville-Pittsylvania County Community Services), Amanda Oakes (Regional Alliance for Substance Abuse Prevention), Special Agent Matt Wade (Virginia State Police), Rachel Swartz (U.S. Attorney’s Office Western District of Virginia)
- Distinguished Service Medal – Capt. Henry Richardson, Capt. Ernest Thompson
- Chief’s Award – Ashtyn Foddrell, Donald Smith, Lt. David Whitley
The actions and achievements of those listed above are representative of the good work that our officers do on a daily basis as they serve the citizens of our city.
The ceremony was held following social distancing protocols. Special “Thank You” to River Oak Church for the use of their facility to host this event.
Ceremony pictures can be found here.