Last Friday, the boys in blue of Midlothian swapped handcuffs for handshakes as the Midlothian Police Department celebrated their finest at the 2023-24 Annual Awards Dinner, held at the local conference center. The event, peppered with both pomp and pride, saw officers and staff digging into dinner served up by none other than their own Command Staff, according to the Midlothian Police Department.
Highlighted for exceptional service, the night shone a spotlight on individuals such as Officer Darren Burkhart, who clinched the Officer of the Year award, and SRO Sergeant Billy "BJ" Halbert, named Supervisor of the Year. With gratitude, guests watched the "Top Shot" award hitting the bullseye when it was handed to Officer Chad Ferris, and applause erupted as the Heather Phares Award was bestowed upon Officer Dalton Bailey. Meanwhile, Leslie Weinrich received accolades as the Telecommunicator of the Year, showing that every cog in the law enforcement machine is essential.
This year, the community's embrace was felt stronger than ever with honors extending beyond the badge. Will Clark, Community Services/Code Officer, stood out as the Civilian of the Year, and Ricky Cox netted the title of Volunteer of the Year for the third year running. Even Officer Rudy Hille got in on the action, oaring his way to the “Golden Oar” Award – a new take on an inside joke among the force.
The celebration wouldn't have been possible without the generous support of local businesses, such as Brookshires and Chicken Express, which did not just offer support but reinforced the tight-knit fabric of this community. Contributions provided by Earthtones Greenery, Inc., Flowers by Roberta, and the savory delights from Nana B's Bake Shop to the Villa Italiana, served to underscore the shared values and camaraderie that exist between the town's protectors and those they serve. Further backing was shown by The Pandithurai Family, Tim Tobey - State Farm Agent, Waxahachie Express Wash (The Hall Family), Lee Wescott Family, and Wilson's Seafood, all of whom made the night one to remember.
As the evening concluded, so too did the careers of some of Midlothian’s finest, as the department paid tribute to the 2023-24 retirees. While their presence on the force will be missed, the legacy these public servants leave behind is one of perseverance, commitment, and community – tenets that the Midlothian Police Department continues to uphold with every commendation and every act of service.
