Last Friday, the Milton Police Department celebrated its own at the annual awards ceremony—a hallmark of Police Week when those lost in the line of duty are remembered and the bond between the department and the Milton community is fortified. Milton's top brass, along with city officials, gathered at the Milton Municipal Court to honor the service, professionalism, and heroism within their ranks.
Chief Jason Griffin set the tone, praising his officers' bravery and commitment, highlighting the spirit of the week, according to the Milton official website. In a statement that paired the commitment seen by officers with the overarching sentiment, Mayor Peyton Jamison and Councilmembers Phil Cranmer and Jan Jacobus joined the ceremony, giving their support and lauding the contributions of the officers to creating a safe and welcoming Milton.
The range of commendations was broad, from the Citizens Service Medal bestowed upon Patti Swann for her cheer-raising efforts among the ranks, to the recognition of professional development achievements by members such as Sgt. Laura Hamby, who completed the Guardian Leadership Trilogy workshop. The awards also underscored the importance of continual learning, with officers like Lt. Christopher Bradshaw graduating from prestigious programs and Sgt. Scott Harrell and Sgt. David Little is completing the FBI LEEDA Trilogy, as per the city's website.
Life-saving actions were also spotlighted, with Officers Blake Arnold and Hunter Ray receiving a joint lifesaving medal for their decisive action during an overdose incident. Military service was honored as well, with four officers receiving Military Service Medals for their contributions to both the country and the Milton community.
Public Safety Ambassador Nicholas Gottfried was named 2024 Civilian of the Year, embodying the department's commitment to community service. The Rookie of the Year award was given to Task Force Officer Dakota Sparks, hailed as a dedicated detective despite his short tenure on the force thus far. Leadership was recognized in Sgt. Scott Lappin, Supervisor of the Year, is noted for his professional and approachable nature as he manages MPD’s criminal investigations division. Detective Randy Dula, hailed for his collaborative spirit, was honored with the Officer of the Year award, recognized for solving seemingly impossible cases.
