Lacey Police Department recognizes exceptional service at annual awards ceremony 

In a salute to valor and service, the Lacey Police Department recognized its finest officers, civilians and volunteers at its annual awards ceremony. 

The department announced the honorees in a statement on Thursday, April 2, with distinctions that included lifesaving recognition, volunteer honors and civilian excellence. 

"We are very fortunate to have the dedicated and hard-working staff that we do," said the department in thanking honorees for their "ongoing service to our community." 

Leading the honorees was Detective Josh Dumont, who was named Employee of the Year. Officer Matthew Anthony received two honors, the Exceptional Service for Patrol award and the Inspirational Partner designation. 

Sgt. Kevin Landwehrle was recognized for Exceptional Service for Investigations. 

Among the ceremony's most notable moments, Officer Joe Gerkman and retired Officer Michael Aalbers each received the Life Saving Award. Officer Nicolas Gutierrez earned the Commissioned Staff Chief's Award, while Becki Mullen received the Civilian Staff Chief's Award. 

Volunteer Jon Cox received the Volunteer Chief's Award. Lacey Resource Officers Bob and Laura Currie were presented the Gerald Abernathy Lacey Resource Officer of the Year Award. 

Ten department members also received commendations: Sgt. Landwehrle, Sgt. Jeremy Knight, Officer Gerkman, Officer Anne Stribling, Detective Andrea Moore, Detective Sophia Heang, Detective Dumont, Detective Stephanie Favela, Officer Marisa Rosas and Digital Forensic Analyst Morganne Hutchinson. 

City Manager Rick Walk praised the honorees in a separate statement, saying the department's staff "embody dedication, integrity, and a deep commitment to public safety."

He also acknowledged Chief Robert Almada and Deputy Chief Robert Hollis, praising their "focus on building a culture grounded in trust, compassion, and accountability."