Mayor and Police Commander proud to present police honours

May 20, 2008

North Shore Police Commander Les Patterson and Mayor Andrew Williams presented 17 prestigious police awards at a ceremony held in Takapuna last Friday.

The ceremony recognised several recipients of a Long Service Medal, for 14, 21 or 28 years working for the Police, as well as four officers who received Timor Leste medals for tours of duty in East Timor.

Two North Shore citizens, Mr Phillip Jagger and Mr Murray Anderson, were awarded a police Certificate of Commendation for bravery.

The award and medal ceremony is an important way to recognise the importance of the police in our community, Mayor Andrew Williams said.

"North Shore continues to have one of the lowest crime rates in the country, and it is a testament to the dedication of our local police."

Police Commander Inspector Les Paterson, who himself received a 28 years service medal at the ceremony, expressed pride in recognising the many recent achievements of his staff.

"The ceremony highlighted the professionalism and commitment of those who have served in East Timor, and those who have dedicated a long service to policing.

"It is also particularly significant that the awards equally acknowledged those in the community. The joint Mayoral Police Award to Phillip Jagger and Murray Anderson recognised their high level of courage and community support to Police when they apprehended an offender who had robbed and injured a young woman.

"We normally recommend that a person not get involved in any incident where they could be seriously harmed. However, on this occasion the two men made a calculated judgement, successfully apprehending and detaining a violent offender until police arrived."

Other officers and non sworn staff were recognised with Diplomas in Workplace Practice during the ceremony, and a Certificate of Promotion was also awarded.

Mayor Andrew Williams received a police crest at the end of the ceremony, recognising his ongoing support and relationship with local police.

Retired officer Bruce Wood also received a special mention for his second 21 year Long Service Medal, after serving 42 years consecutive service with the police force.

Mr Wood is now lending his police experience working for the council as a graffiti prevention officer, working proactively to keep graffiti and vandalism levels down.

ENDS

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