EATON — On Monday, Jan. 17, the Eaton Police Division honored its own during an annual meeting to wrap up 2021.

Lt. David Sizemore and Sgt. Sean Mackey presented several awards during the breakfast event.

Sizemore opened, sharing that the officers receive many compliments from community members for their efforts. “I always try to pass them along to you guys, but we actually get a lot of compliments and it’s greatly appreciated. We had a couple of bumps, but other than that I think it was a great year,” he said.

“I will just do a quick ‘thank you’ for everything you guys do,” City Manager Brad Collins added. “At the staff level, we’re always receiving compliments for what you guys do. So, thank you.”

The first award presented was one for “Zero Sick Leave” being used in 2021. Recipients included Administrative Assistant Tonya Hickman, Officer Clinnie Stevenson, Officer Scott Eversole, Mackey, Officer Vanessa Eley, Officer Derek Pheanis, Chief Steve Hurd, School Resource Officer Pete Wray, Officer John Nickell and Officer Aaron Melling.

“Most Events,” recognition went to Stevenson, who attended over 1,700 community activities.

“OVI Enforcement” recognition went to Eley, for “18 OVI arrests and a slew of physical control arrests,” according to Mackey.

The “Top Shot” Award went to Craig Jones.

“Investigation of the Year” was awarded for an attempted murder case which took the efforts of the entire EPD team. It was accepted by Detective Brian Carpenter who was lead investigator on the case. The plaque for the award was engraved to the entire Eaton Police Division.

“Top Driver” from an officer driving competition went to Nickell.

“Years of Service” recognitions were awarded to Jones, for 15 years of service, and Wray for 25 years of service.

The “Proud to Serve” award was presented to Melling.

“Officer of the Year” was presented to Nickell, who Mackey said “has been taking more responsibility in the department but asking less and less of the agency.”

Police Chief Hurd said it had been a great year. “I appreciate all the hard work everyone does,” he added.