Local Law Enforcement Honored for Community Policing, Idaho 2024

BOISE – In a move to strengthen relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve, the U.S. Marshal Service and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho honored 14 local law enforcement officers with the ‘Excellence in Community Policing Awards’ as part of National Community Policing Week.

The awards recognized commitment and excellence in community policing, helping community members live lives of safety, opportunity, and purpose. ‘These fourteen law enforcement officers represent the best of policing and the commitment that their agencies have to working together to develop positive and lasting relationships between law enforcement officers and the communities we serve,’ said Wendy J. Olson, U.S. Attorney for the District of Idaho.

Community policing is a public safety philosophy based on partnership and cooperation between law enforcement and the communities they are sworn to protect and serve. ‘Strengthening the relationship between law enforcement officers and the communities we serve and protect is one of the top priorities of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of Idaho,’ said Olson.

The awards recognized officers from the Boise Police Department, including Officer Dan Lister, who is a liaison officer for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender community. Lister was recognized for his work breaking barriers, improving communication, and developing a partnership so that law enforcement can better serve the LGBT community.

The Meridian Police Department School Resource Officer program was also honored, with 11 officers recognized for their work in Meridian middle schools and high schools. The officers, led by Sergeant Shawn Harper, were recognized for their daily duties of problem-solving at schools and their donations of time to other community activities such as Shop with a Cop.

Other officers honored included ATF Special Agent Ralph Lambright, who is an expert in firearms and explosives and was recognized for his outreach at schools and community events. ‘We are fortunate in Idaho to have outstanding community policing efforts at every level of law enforcement,’ said U.S. Marshal for the District of Idaho Brian T. Underwood.

The awards are a testament to the hard work and dedication of these officers and their commitment to building stronger, safer, and more just communities for every American. ‘The U.S. Department of Justice and its law enforcement agencies are proud to recognize these officers’ excellence in community policing,’ said Underwood.

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