News Flash

A first-year member of the Liberty Lake Police Department has been named the organization's 2024 Officer of the Year.  And, he's been joined by a 3 1/2-year veteran law officer who has received the LLPD's first-ever Employee Excellence Award.

The department's annual service recognitions were presented as part of the Liberty Lake City Council meeting on Jan. 7.  The Officer of the Year Award was announced by LLPD Chief Damon Simmons, following the presentation of the Employee Excellence Award by LLPD Deputy Chief Darin Morgan.

The recently promoted Corporal Darin Powers received the Officer of the Year Award almost exactly a year to the day that he joined the LLPD in January of 2024.  This award honors an officer who has demonstrated exceptional courage, integrity, and commitment to their duties on behalf of the community.  The award recognizes the officer's bravery and heroism, integrity and professionalism, community engagement, leadership skills, and problem-solving abilities.  

"This accolade reflects his exemplary performance, leadership, and ability to foster positive relationships within the community," Chief Simmons said during his presentation of the award.  "Officer Powers' recognition not only shines a light on his individual contributions but also serves to inspire his colleagues and reinforces the importance of community-oriented policing as well as good old fashion policing."

Simmons added:  "This award is a testament to the dedication and hard work of those who serve and protect, inspiring future generations to uphold these values in their pursuit of justice and community service."

Officer Logan Ervin received the Employee Excellence Award, a new award that selected through a vote by the police department's members to recognize someone who represents the core values of the organization and serves as an example for the other officers to emulate.  

Since joining the LLPD in May of 2021, Ervin has taken tactical development courses and has been instrumental in developing and providing that training to each of the department's officers.  He received his certification as a handgun instructor this past year and developed the curriculum for the staff's most recent range qualification.  During 2024, he also received advanced training in criminal intelligence investigations, street crimes, active shooter, and supervisor liability.