Officers Announced for Annual Officer of the Year and ‘Respect for Law Day’ Luncheon – Hosted by the Optimist Club of Downtown Flint

Officers Announced for Annual Officer of the Year and ‘Respect for Law Day’ Luncheon – Hosted by the Optimist Club of Downtown Flint

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 24, 2012 – FLINT, MI – The Optimist Club of Downtown Flint is proud to be hosting the Officer of the Year award presentation and “Respect for Law Day” luncheon. The luncheon will be held at Weekdays Restaurant and Conference Center, located in the GASC Technology Center, Flint, on Monday, May 7, 2012 at 12:00 noon.

In honor of National Law Day, the awards are presented annually to provide appropriate recognition to deserving officers who have demonstrated exceptional achievement and genuine commitment to their profession and the public they serve.

“It is a privilege to recognize those officers who have contributed great public service within the community, while stimulating a sense of civic responsibility through their heroism, valor, and understanding and respect for law,” said Chairman Mike Buckel.

This year’s recipients include Argentine Township’s Chief Dan Allen, Detective Arch Ravert, and Officer Angelo Panos as well as Lt. David Dwyre of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Department for their work, which resulted in the first degree murder conviction of Brandon Hayes and second degree murder conviction of Corrine Baker in the death of 4-year-old Dominick Calhoun. “Dominick’s Law,” a law which would enact stiffer penalties for child abusers, is currently in the House Judiciary Committee.

Flint Detective Sgt. Jeff Fray is being honored for his level of commitment to a young girl who was the victim of criminal sexual conduct. Fray exemplified exceptional achievement through his level of professionalism, empathy and dedication. “Jeff treats each case as if it was his very first and as if he personally has an investment in ensuring that the victim is well taken care of throughout the criminal justice process,” said Director, U of M Flint, Dept. of Public Safety, Ray Hall.

Detective Michael Neering of the Mundy Township Police Department is being recognized for his investigation in a fatal car crash which killed two people. His investigation resulted in the conviction of the driver who was charged with two counts of manslaughter with a motor vehicle, operating under the influence, and driving while suspended, causing death in July of 2011. It was originally believed that the driver was one of the deceased occupants. Detective Neering conducted an extensive investigation, which involved a reconstruction of the crash, footwear impressions, vehicle damage and DNA to determine the actual driver of the vehicle.

To attend this year’s event, please contact Chairman Mike Buckel at mbuckelsonitrolmichigan.com. For more information on Optimist Clubs visit www.optimist.org.