Leaders, lifesavers, go-getters, and other do-gooders earned special praise last Friday at the Milton Police Department’s annual awards ceremony.

Like every year, this event capped Police Week – an opportunity to reflect on those law enforcement personnel nationwide who died in the line of duty, as well as to strengthen the Police Department’s relationship with and understanding among community members. Chief Jason Griffin kicked off Friday’s proceedings at Milton Municipal Court, describing them as a celebration of department members’ bravery, utmost professionalism, and sincere commitment to service.

Mayor Peyton Jamison -- who attended along with Councilmembers Phil Cranmer and Jan Jacobus – then called it an honor to reflect, appreciate, and recognize those who nobly serve and protect the Milton community.

Addressing the officers in attendance, Jamison said, “You help make Milton the safe and welcoming place that it is… Your continued success is something we will always support.”

His remarks were followed by the award portion of the event, overseen by Deputy Chief Chris Ward.

The first to be celebrated was Patti Swann with the Citizens Service Medal. She earned this honor by being a great civilian ambassador for the department to the community and for her extensive morale-boosting efforts, such as monthly homemade cake deliveries and decorating the station for Police Week.

Several members were singled out for recent professional development achievements, namely:

• Sgt. Laura Hamby, for completing the interactive Guardian Leadership Trilogy workshop and also earning Level 1 and Level 2 instructor ribbons (the latter of which means she can teach most any course to most law enforcement officers)
• Lt. Christopher Bradshaw, recognized for graduating from the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command course
• Sgt. Scott Harrell and Sgt. David Little, both of whom completed the FBI LEEDA Trilogy – a comprehensive, three-pronged leadership program
• Sgt. Logan Pacheco and Officer Brian Stafford for Leadership in Public Safety coursework (through the Georgia Public Safety Training Center)
• Officer Scott Sanford, awarded the Field Training Officer (FTO) ribbon in recognition of his dedication and service in mentoring and training new officers

Military Service Medals went to four Milton officers for their service in the U.S. military: Robert Ateca (Marines), Patrick Conaway (Navy), Alexander Huffman (Army), and James Tomalka (Army). Officer Sanford earned the Marksmanship Award for besting all competitors in a specially designed firearms course.

Officers Blake Arnold and Hunter Ray shared a lifesaving medal for their heroic efforts one day last December. The pair responded to a suspected overdose, arriving to find someone without a pulse. They performed CPR and administered Narcan, reviving the individual’s pulse before EMS professionals came and took over.

Public Safety Ambassador Nicholas Gottfried was named 2024 Civilian of the Year. A non-sworn member of the Milton Police, Gottfried was lauded for taking ownership, demonstrating exceptional dedication, and consistently going the extra mile – whether helping as a crossing guard, directing traffic, supporting citizens in distress, and much more – for members of the department and the community.

The Rookie of the Year goes to a newcomer with less than two years of law enforcement experience. This year, it was claimed by Task Force Officer Dakota Sparks (a specialized detective) for his being a reliable, hard-working, compassionate, and supportive member of the department.

Sgt. Scott Lappin, who runs the day-to-day in MPD’s criminal investigations division, was named Supervisor of the Year. Ward extolled Lappin’s exceptional leadership, positive attitude, and being professional yet approachable, calling him the “epitome of a team player.”

Finally, Detective Randy Dula took home the Officer of the Year distinction. Characterized as collaborative, accommodating, insightful, and a model of Milton Police’s vision and values, Ward also noted how Dula often “goes above-and-beyond to solve cases that initially seem impossible.”

Congratulations to all those recognized, and thank you for your service!