In early November, more than 40 members from the law enforcement agencies in Placer County gathered at Destiny Church in Rocklin to be honored for their outstanding service to public safety. The annual Placer Law Enforcement Agencies Honors and Awards ceremony recognizes acts of valor and outstanding performances by all county law enforcement employees and volunteers from the prior year.
Some were honored for their heroic efforts on the front line, while others were honored for going above and beyond behind the scenes. Of the 40 people honored, 16 represented the Roseville Police Department. Retired Sacramento Sheriff John McGinness was the Master of Ceremonies and introduced all employees receiving awards.
Honorees from the Roseville Police Department include:
- Receiving a Distinguished Service Commendation were Sergeant Dave Buelow, Officer Lloyd Lackl, and Officer Kyle Mallatt. They were acknowledged for putting the public’s safety before their own as they contacted a potentially armed felony suspect who was a danger to the community.
- The Crime Suppression Unit, consisting of Sergeant Kato, Detective Guess, Detective Pratt, Detective Ryland, Detective Stokes, Detective Trudell, and Placer County Probation Officer Stout all received a Distinguished Service Commendation. As a unit, they have made over 180 arrests ranging from drug offenses, human trafficking, pimping, and violent crimes.
- Sergeant Scott Miszkewycz was also awarded a Distinguished Service Commendation for his twelve years of involvement with the Department’s K-9 unit.
- Another Distinguished service award was awarded to Lieutenant Missy Morris for serving for 13 years as the team leader on the Department’s Critical Incident Negotiations Team. In the past year, Lt. Morris’ abilities as a negotiator have led to the safe surrenders of two people intent on taking their own lives.
- Two recipients of the Lifesaving Award are Officer Derek Anganes and Officer Donald Mason. Officer Derek Anganes made contact with an agitated individual who had injured himself in an attempt to take his own life. Officer Anganes was able to convince the individual to drop his knife and deescalated the situation. Officer Mason ran into heavy, oncoming traffic to pick up a boy who had run out into the middle of the road, preventing the youth from being struck by an oncoming vehicle.
- Officer Donald Mason received his second award that evening, the Mark White Memorial Award. Officer Mason received the award because he has proven to be a patient and understanding officer to many of the youth in the community.
- Officer Jerry Wernli received the Matt Redding “Guardian” Award. For the past ten years, Officer Wernli has volunteered his time to the Special Olympics of Northern California.
Officer Donald Mason receives his recognition from Roseville Police Chief James Maccoun.
The Roseville Police Department has over 50 volunteers, and their service never goes unnoticed. Civilian Mary Helen Ivers was recognized for her nine years of service with the Volunteer Program.
Recipient Mary Helen Ivers receives her award from Roseville Police Chief James Maccoun.
There is incredible work being done every single day by first responders and support staff, and this is just a snapshot of some of the highlights of their service and commitment to the citizens of Roseville.
To everyone who offers their support to our community in times of crisis and need, we thank you for your selfless efforts and protections. Thank you, kindly.