BROOKVILLE — Police officer Forest Wilson was named the 2023 “Officer of the Year.”

Wilson received his award from police chief Doug Jerome at the April 3 city council meeting.

“Typically when we’re doing the annual report at the end of the year we start thinking which officer we’re going to pick as ‘Officer of the Year,’” Jerome said.

Jerome said there was no question who would be the recipient of the honor for 2023.

“Our supervisors discuss possible candidates and try to determine what an officer may have done up and beyond the call of duty and what they are required to do on a daily basis,” Jerome said.

Jerome said the selection for 2023 was “a breeze” because of Wilson’s dedication to doing more than just the minimum required tasks on a daily basis.

“There’s probably a list of 30 things I could name that he is doing that are self-initiated and not assigned by me,” Jerome said.

Jerome said Wilson plays a major role in traffic safety.

“We get constant complaints from citizens ranging from motorists speeding to failure to stop at stop signs and Forest is on top of that,” Jerome said.

Jerome said Wilson has taken the initiative on crime prevention by organizing “Neighborhood Watch” meetings in the city.

Jerome also said Wilson has secured and hands out bicycle safety helmets to children.

Jerome said Wilson’s latest project took place April 9 at the Brookville fire station.

“Wilson found a DEA (Drug Enforcement Agency) Red Ribbon event the Scouts could enter and get a patch if they gave an anti-drug presentation,” Jerome said.

Jerome said DEA representatives attended the event and presented patches to all the Boy Scouts who participated.

Jerome said Wilson will attend the Ohio Crime Prevention Association’s three-day Level One crime prevention course in May, followed by another class at a later date that will allow him to become certified to conduct safety and theft prevention surveys for businesses and industries in the city.

“We’re proud of Forest,” Jerome said.

Councilmember J.D. Fowler praised Wilson for his service to the city.

“I hear a lot of great things about you,’ Fowler said.

“You are an exemplary officer and we appreciate everything you do,” Fowler continued.

Mayor Chuck Letner agreed with Fowler.

“Since the day I swore you in you’ve represented the city very well. Congratulations and keep up the good work,” Letner said.

“I appreciate the opportunity to work for the city. It’s a great city with wonderful people,” Wilson said.

Reach Terry Baver at [email protected].