At a recent Alliance City Council meeting, the Alliance Police Department hosted an awards ceremony, recognizing those who have gone above and beyond in serving the community. The following awards were issued:
Elizabeth Bonds – Commendation
On April 28th, 2024, dispatcher Elizabeth Bonds demonstrated extraordinary courage, compassion, and expertise during a childbirth. The baby decided it was coming and wasn’t going to wait. Elizabeth kept mom and dad calm, gave pre-arrival instructions, and helped ensure the baby was safe and cared for until medical professionals arrived on the scene.
(Not pictured) Toni Ravert – Commendation
On July 31st, Officer Ravert was performing code enforcement on an abandoned vehicle. Instead of just having the car removed, Toni took the time to bring the VIN to dispatch for a records check. The vehicle was found to be stolen out of Colorado. Toni’s willingness to go the extra mile resulted in this case being closed for the Colorado agency, and the victim was able to get their vehicle back.
(Not pictured) Dani Campbell – Commendation
For nearly one year, Officer Campbell has been the equipment supervisor for the APD. This role developed organically as Dani saw a need. No one asked or forced her to do it. She took the initiative and created an organized, efficient, and accountable clothing and equipment inventory system. Dani handles all ordering and maintains records for all issued equipment at the APD.
Parker Dahlberg – Commendation
On April 19th, 2024, Officer Dahlberg observed a suspicious pickup truck parked near the First Interstate Inn. Based on drug paraphernalia in plain view, Officer Parker obtained a search warrant for the truck, located the owner, and made an arrest based on the drug paraphernalia and methamphetamine found in the vehicle. This was Officer Dahlberg’s first drug arrest and exemplifies his commitment to making our community safer by getting drugs off our streets.
Trooper Juan Garfio – Commendation
After two days of searching for missing person Patricia Eichhorn, the APD, AFD, and citizen volunteers embarked on an exhaustive grid search of the entire city. Along the outskirts of town, Trooper Garfio decided to check some county roads for any sign of Ms. Eichhorn. As he drove down CR58, he noted a steep drop-off he couldn’t see over. Trooper Garfio decided to pull over for a better look. Much to his surprise, he found Ms. Eichhorn just feet from where he pulled over, dehydrated but okay. She was transported to BBGH for dehydration and later released to her family, thanks to Trooper Garfio.
Jessica Kaye – Commendation
Before her current assignment, Jess was our evidence technician. She diligently organized and restructured the APD Evidence Vault procedures. During a four-hour, unannounced audit, positive reviews and no infractions demonstrated Jess’s hard work. Her attention to detail and positive attitude continues to shine through as she excels in every task she takes on.
Tyler Sherlock – Chief’s Coin
Officer Sherlock goes above and beyond in his efforts toward community policing. Despite staffing issues preventing a full-time SRO, Tyler continues to organize events and be a positive role model for the youth of our community. Tyler also handles our social media and is vital in keeping our community informed about APD activities.
Hannah Gerth & Kirsten McCracken (not pictured)- Lifesaving Award
On June 12th, 2023, Kirsten and Hannah received a call from a suicidal person who was distraught and refused to give their location. Due to their professionalism, they gained the victim’s trust, who agreed to come to the police station to seek help. After her arrival, Hannah continued a compassionate conversation, building trust and giving the victim courage to seek help. The victim was admitted to a facility where she received the needed help. Hannah and Kirsten’s supportive, professional, and compassionate engagement made a significant difference.
James Grumbles – Lifesaving Award
On June 15th, 2022, Sergeant Grumbles was dispatched to a 73-year-old male not breathing. Upon arrival, Sergeant Grumbles immediately initiated CPR and continued until EMS arrived. The patient survived, thanks to Sergeant Grumbles’ quick response where precious seconds were critical to save a life.
Timothy Peterson – Lifesaving Award
On February 12th, 2023, Sergeant Tim Peterson responded to a call at the Alliance Grocery Kart for a male who was unresponsive and not breathing. Sgt. Peterson retrieved the AED from his vehicle and deployed it as firefighters arrived. Sgt. Peterson’s quick actions and deployment of the AED led to the survival of the victim, who was eventually transported to another facility by air ambulance after being stabilized.
Timothy Peterson & Dani Campbell (not pictured)- Medal of Valor
The Medal of Valor is awarded to officers who exemplify extreme bravery and commitment to duty in the face of grave danger. Officer Dani Campbell and Sergeant Tim Peterson responded to a welfare check on November 2nd, 2023. Upon arrival, Sergeant Peterson observed a subject pointing a gun at the officers. The officers-maintained composure and tactically withdrew to a position of cover, deescalating the situation and avoiding a potential tragedy. Through tactics and communication, the suspect was apprehended, and his hostage was safely rescued. Both officers displayed unwavering commitment to public safety, and their conduct is a testament to courage and selflessness.