April 19, 2023 at 5:10 am
Several Chatham-Kent Police Department officers and civilians were honored by the Chief for their outstanding and selfless work during December’s winter storm.
Sergeant Gary Conn will honor nearly 60 dedicated emergency communications operators and officers of all ranks at the monthly Police Services Commission meeting on Wednesday.
Police noted that the Emergency Communications Center (ECC) received more than 3,000 9-1-1 calls during the storm.
Commissioner Conn said his officers worked tirelessly in extreme conditions of minus 20 degrees Celsius, with winds gusting up to 100 kilometers per hour and near zero visibility, to rescue dozens of people.
Commissioner Conn said several employees worked long hours with only short breaks to catch up on sleep at local hotels and check in with friends or colleagues before returning to work.
“The ECC has been relentless in sending police officers and firing guns, while fielding an influx of calls from stranded travelers and concerned family members,” Conn said. “The pillars of our organization.” “
Travel became dangerous due to heavy snow and high winds, with Highway 401 closed in several places, diverting drivers onto municipal roads on Christmas Eve. Many drivers were trapped in the snow, forcing emergency crews to take action.
Chief Conn said his police team had saved many lives and increased public trust and confidence in the community, and he could not be more proud to have worked with them.
“Our frontline officers have shown true heroism during the storm, risking their lives to keep our communities safe. These members, both civilians and sworn in, have long worked in dangerous conditions and put the needs of others Putting your needs above your own. Great job!” said Chief Conn.
Chatham-Kent Constables are also recognized for their alertness and commitment to good policing.
Constable Burgess will receive a letter of commendation from the deputy chief at Wednesday’s police department board meeting for his insight into an abandoned stolen vehicle in Chatham in November 2022.
Deputy Kirk Earley said the vehicle had been reported stolen in Hamilton and Constable Burgess could have passed it on, but he dug in and found two hammers, two shovels, cable ties, several used latex gloves, one of which he thought had dried blood on it.
“Constable Burgess’ experience, tenacity and methodical approach to investigations is just one example of the hard work he does every day to uphold his oath and commitment to keep our community safe,” Deputy Sheriff Earley said.
The stolen vehicle is connected to several investigations in the Greater Toronto Area.