CLEARLAKE, Calif. – The Clearlake Police Department recently honored the stars within its ranks with annual awards noting serving above and beyond the call of duty.
At last Thursday’s Clearlake City Council meeting, Police Chief Craig Clausen introduced the department’s two new officers and presented the staff awards.
New officers are Chris Reagan, a former department employee who returned after a few years away, and Trevor Franklin, a Middletown native now in his first law enforcement job.
Clausen said the awards for both nonsworn and sworn employees were for services that exceeded their jobs’ expectations.
While he said he considered all of his staff to be stars, “This is from their peers that these selections were made.”
Richard Moore was named volunteer of the year for his efforts on behalf of the department, including keeping patrol cars in tip-top shape.
For nonsworn employee of the year, Sherri Vannest was honored.
Clausen said that during the city’s budget crisis Vannest – who had been with the city for 17 years and had served as the chief of police’s secretary – had her job cut from the department.
However, a dispatch position came open and she applied, rejoining the department, he said.
“She is a great asset,” said Clausen. “It was a tremendous loss when we lost her.”
She was recognized for her hard work and dependability, and willingness to come in any time she’s needed, Clausen said.
Det. Travis Lenz was selected as sworn officer of the year.
Lenz, said Clausen, started with the department about three years ago.
He also works as a field training officer for the department, and has stepped up to fill in while a sergeant is off on a family matter.
The council and audience gave the three rounds of applause, with Mayor Jeri Spittler also offering her thanks.
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