Police Chief Bob Hundley announced today that the Paris Police Department’s annual “Police Officer of the Year” and “Civilian Employee of the Year” have been selected for 2009. All department employees were eligible to make nominations for the two awards and once nominations were made, a vote of all employees was taken for both positions.
The Paris Police Officer of the Year for 2009 is Sgt. Jimmy Womack. Sgt. Womack began his career with the Department in January 1996. Sgt. Womack has worked uniform patrol for most of his career and was one of the first School Resource Officers for North Lamar Independent School District. Jimmy returned to patrol when he promoted to Corporal in 2003 and promoted to Sergeant in 2007. Sgt. Womack has also worked with the Department’s Special Weapons and Tactics Team for several years. He currently holds an Advanced Certificate from the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement and is currently working towards his Bachelor’s Degree. Chief Bob Hundley described Sgt. Womack as a very dedicated officer who is constantly working on improving his education. “This award is a very important honor for any officer as it is bestowed by fellow co-workers” Hundley remarked.
Mr. Martin Vandergriff has been named Police Civilian Employee of the year for 2009. Mr. Vandergriff provides maintenance for the police and court building. Chief Hundley stated; “Martin has only been with the department for a year, beginning with us in December of 2008. He constantly remains in a pleasant mood and takes care of a very large building in short order. He always has time for a quick chat and is a very popular employee. I assure you, we know when he is not here.”
Sgt. Womack and Mr. Vandergriff will both have their names added to the respective “Officer of the Year” and “Police Civilian Employee of the Year” plaques in the front lobby of the Police Department and both recipients will receive personal plaques as well.