The Knoxville Police Department served up some much-deserved recognition at their annual Employee Recognition Luncheon on Thursday, honoring a group of their finest for exceptional service in 2023.

Officers Colby Chandler and, John Martin received the Officer of the Year award. Christine Mullan, who reigns as the Crime Analysis Supervisor, and Brandi Carson, a dedicated Violent Crimes Unit Victim Advocate, snagged the Employee of the Year titles. The awards were determined by votes from the KPD Awards and Commendations Committee, a team made up of a diverse set of department representatives, according to an announcement on the department's website.

Adding to the list of the commendable, Sergeant Rodney Patton was deemed worthy of the Mike Waggoner Leadership Award, a tribute to his veteran experience and guiding hand within the force.

In addition to the seasoned officers, the KPD also spotlighted youth in service, commending JP Light as the Explorer of the Year. A gesture that underscores the department's investment in nurturing future generations of law enforcement professionals. Chief of Police Paul Noel expressed pride in the honorees, stating, “The individuals who were awarded today are shining examples of the best of our department. Each of them is passionately dedicated to their assignment and helping us however they can accomplish our fundamental mission as an organization of making Knoxville safer. This recognition is a reflection of the quality of their daily work and the way they represent our agency.”