HOULTON, Maine — The Houlton Police Department recognized its employees with a number of accolades Saturday evening as part of its annual awards ceremony and dinner at the Houlton Elks Lodge.
“I personally thank each and every one of you both professionally and personally,” Houlton Police Chief Tim DeLuca said. “We are a team of which I am proud. I often look back on our department, all of you and individuals and professionals and think how fortunate I [we] are to have each of you for your knowledge, talents and dedication to serve.”
Chief DeLuca presented the Officer of the Year Award to Sgt. Matthew Quint.
“I proudly recognize your outstanding efforts and dedication to the Houlton Police Department, clearly above and beyond expectations,” the chief said of Quint. “Your efforts are clear in your performance as a leader within our department. Most recognizable and appreciated is your loyalty and dedication to our mission, your co-workers and the administration. Many times you have sacrificed your personal life to fill shifts and details as to provide time off for others. You have mentored the entire department not only by reminding others of the professional standard but by leading by example.”
DeLuca called Quint a “true leader” who knows the balance between the importance of an administrative role and being out on the streets.
“Often you funnel your expected frustrations in a positive manner using it as a learning tool for others, sometimes not when you shut the doors to my office,” he said. “You understand that being a mentor and a good listener is the key to producing an outstanding officer rather than criticizing. This department and community cannot be more thankful for your efforts, dedication, loyalty, hard work and leadership skills.”
The Dispatcher of the Year Award was presented to long-time dispatcher Tom Milton.
“I proudly recognize your outstanding efforts and dedication to the Houlton Police Department and the community,” the chief said. “You clearly strive to do your best each day. Your professional representation is a true measure of your loyalty and dedication to the mission of HPD. You are always prepared for the officers and provide them with the tools necessary to complete a task. Often, you take the time to mentor others rather than criticize in order to maintain and achieve a level of performance.”
Kevin Bailey was presented with the Citizen of the Year Award.
“You clearly show your commitment to not only HPD, but all of the citizens of Houlton,” DeLuca said. “You are often called 24/7 to assist others for a variety of reasons and never once have you refuse to respond. In addition, everyone is greeted with a respectful demeanor and a friendly smile no matter the time of day. You are always compassionate to those in need and willing to help. Your actions clearly show you are not only dedicated to providing a service but to the entire community.”
Honorable Service Awards were presented to former sergeant Charles Wampler and retired captain Dan Pelleiter. Detective Steven Nason was presented with the Award of Excellence Citation, while Travis Smith received the Officer Performance Citation and Charles Heath won the Human Relations Citation.
A Police Distinguished Service Citation was given to retired police chief Darrell Malone. The retired chief began his career at Houlton Police Department on July 12, 1966, and was promoted to sergeant in 1971, lieutenant in 1976 and chief in 1984 before retiring in 1991.
“Your career here was exemplary in many aspects,” Chief DeLuca said. “Many of your initiatives and missions are in place today and have had an effect on the culture of HPD. You have a life of dedicated service not only to Law Enforcement but to the community of Houlton. “
Specialty Service recognitions were also bestowed. Receiving accolades were Field Training Officer: Sgt. Quint, Cpl. Janakis, Officer Smith and Officer Shane Campbell; Drug Recognition Expert: Officer Jasmine Cyr; Evidence Technician: Officer Cyr; Certified Instructors: Sgt. Quint, Officer Smith and Officer Campbell; Intermediate Law Enforcement Officer Certification: Heath; Advanced Law Enforcement Officer Certification: Lt. Theron Bickford.
Years of Service awards were presented to Cyr, five years; and Milton, 20 years. Military Service Citations were presented to Sgt. Quint, U.S. Marines and U.S. Army; Officer Smith, U.S. Army; Heath, U.S. Navy; new recruit Russell Socoby, U.S. Marines; and Animal Control Officer David Rairdon, U.S. Army.
