Press Release #23-00002
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 15, 2023
Lago Vista Police Department Recognizes Outstanding Achievements of Team Members
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Lago Vista, December 25, 2023 – On December 15th, 2023, Chief of Police Gary Boshears bestowed prestigious accolades upon several commendable individuals during the department's annual awards ceremony. Chief Boshears presented the coveted end-of-year awards for Civilian Employee of the Year, Officer of the Year, Community Service, and Leadership to deserving recipients, carefully chosen by the department's leadership team based on nominations submitted by fellow members.
Crystal Rodriguez-Street, serving as the Executive Administrative Assistant to the Chief of Police, was honored with the Civilian Employee of the Year Award. This distinction recognizes a non-sworn department member who has consistently surpassed expectations in the execution of duties while embodying the department's Vision, Mission, and Core Values. Nominations highlighted Street's unwavering commitment to planning community events, exceptional multitasking and organizational skills, and outstanding management of the department's social media platforms. Chief Gary Boshears commended Street, stating, "Crystal's contributions are invaluable to our citizens, community, and department members."
Sergeant Brandon Carey received the Officer of the Year Award, acknowledging his exemplary performance in fulfilling duties while aligning with the department's Vision, Mission, and Core Values. Nominations underscored Sergeant Carey's expertise, sound judgment, and decision-making capabilities. Chief Gary Boshears remarked, "Sergeant Carey consistently sets the standard for our officers, demonstrating a steadfast dedication to our department's vision, mission, and values."
Sergeant Robert Mercado was presented with the Community Service Award, recognizing his consistent efforts to cultivate relationships and partnerships within the community, in line with the department's community-oriented policing philosophy. Nominations lauded Sergeant Mercado's engagement with students at local schools, voluntary participation in community events, profound knowledge of the community, and ongoing endeavors to build connections with community members. Chief Gary Boshears affirmed, "Sergeant Mercado exemplifies the essence of community policing and relationship building, standing as a stellar example of our commitment to this philosophy."
In addition to the Officer of the Year Award, Sergeant Brandon Carey was honored with the Leadership Award, reserved for a department member who consistently demonstrates exceptional leadership qualities and embodies the principles of a servant leader. Nominations for Sergeant Carey highlighted the exemplary example he sets for his supervisees, the constructive feedback he provides, and his readiness to assist with any task. Chief Gary Boshears praised Sergeant Carey, stating, "His leadership consistently propels his team to remarkable accomplishments, and we take pride in the elevated standard he brings to the department."
The commendations were bestowed upon the recipients in the presence of colleagues and their families during the police department's annual holiday celebration. Chief Gary Boshears concluded the ceremony by expressing his pride in the cohesive team at the police department, emphasizing their commitment to delivering excellence in service to the citizens of Lago Vista.
Chief Boshears is available for in-person or virtual media inquiries on Tuesday, December 19, 2023, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
Media Contacts:
Crystal Street, Executive Assistant to the Chief of Police
512-267-7141 ext. 692
Crystal.street@pd.lagovistatexas.gov
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