Metro Transit Police Deputies McCurdy and Black

A representative from the Union Station buildings in the International District commended the deputies and Metro Transit Police for their efforts since the tunnel reopening and what a difference it has made. Specifically she discussed how impressed she was with the follow-up the two deputies provided to her shortly after she had made some brief comments about problems in the area. She further stated to the Metro Transit Police Chief “I want to make sure that you are aware of how important these officers are to the International District community and I hope that you will continue to keep an intense presence in this neighborhood because it is making a huge impact and I would hate to see us lose ground when we have come this far.”

Deputies Eric White and David Montalvo

Sheriff Rahr received a letter thanking these two deputies for their off-duty patrol services that was initiated with an agreement through the King County Police Officers Guild. The homeowner writes “These additional patrols have proven to be extremely successful primarily due to the diligence, perseverance and professionalism demonstrated by these two officers”. He especially thanked Deputy White for “his availability to work several off duty shifts and for his personal interface with many homeowners both within the community and in attendance at homeowner meetings”.

Deputy Paula Bates

An e-mail was sent to the Shoreline Police Department advising them of a “great scene” that had recently been seen in a local parking lot – “a police officer taking time to show two little children all about her (police) car and answering their questions. She had the doors open, allowed them to sit in it and was acting the part of a great community officer”.

Shoreline Police Department

A Special Agent-in-Charge with the Federal Bureau of Investigation sent Sheriff Rahr a letter commending the Shoreline Police Department for the outstanding police work they did on three bank robberies in the City of Shoreline in 2006. The Agent writes “The Shoreline Police Department continues to do an exemplary job regarding the investigation of bank robberies. Shoreline Police go above and beyond the norm by processing the scenes for evidence, taking detailed witness statements and generally handing a complete investigation over to the FBI for the filing of charges”.

Sergeant Michelle Bennett

The Precinct #3 Commander received an e-mail thanking Sgt. Bennett for participating in the local Community Emergency Preparedness Fair. The information Bennett provided was crucial with regards to educating the community on personal preparedness. It was also noted that “she did an excellent job of representing the Maple Valley Police Department, the ECC and City Government.”

Deputy Robert Nishimura

The Precinct #3 Commander received a letter signed by several citizens in the Maplewood Heights community thanking Deputy Nishimura for his prompt response to an attempted residential burglary. The community members also commended Nishimura for the quality of his work, professionalism and commitment to improve the public safety of their community.

MPO Joe Winters

Sheriff Rahr received a letter from a citizen commending MPO Winters and his recruit on their professionalism, kind care and concern for their family when responding to the death of their son. Winters was “thorough and at the same time sensitive in the way he directed his questions and explained the process that would be followed.” They stated it was a positive experience during a very difficult time.

Deputy Robert Knight

The Sheriff’s Office received an e-mail from a citizen sending “a huge thank you to Deputy Knight.” Knight knocked on the citizen’s door to notify them that their car had been broken into early one Sunday morning. He assisted in searching the vehicle to determine if anything was missing. “He was both sympathetic and helpful” and they were appreciative of all he did.

Deputy Rob Dorman

A King County Fire Investigator commended Deputy Dorman for taking a personal risk and putting out a brush fire. The Investigator states, “if not for Dorman’s quick and decisive action the fire could have spread to several acres to include vehicles, buildings and a conex box nearby used to store flammable liquids. He prevented a much larger fire.”

Detective Andreas Kaltsounis

Detective Kaltsounis has been selected by the United States Attorney’s Office to attend an identity theft seminar in South Carolina. The U.S. Attorney’s Office asked Kaltsounis to attend based on his work on several high profile federal identity theft prosecutions. This is a tremendous honor as the majority of attendees are from federal law enforcement agencies across the United States.

Deputy Clint Herman

The Sheriff’s Office received an e-mail from a citizen complimenting Deputy Herman on his professionalism during a traffic stop involving her son. She stated Herman had a kind and positive attitude with her son and his friends. She said after the contact with the deputy, the topic of conversation was how nice and cool Herman was; not because her son was let off with a warning, but because he dealt with them respectfully and with common courtesy.

Sergeant Barb Etienne

Sgt. Etienne received a commendation from Transit for her response to a suspicious package incident at Atlantic Base. She was extremely helpful in making sure Transit’s needs were met whenever possible. Sgt. Etienne made a difficult situation much easier as she quickly and efficiently liaised between Seattle Police, King County Sheriff and King County Metro.

Metro Deputies Pelczar and Mitchell

A family visiting the Seattle area sent an e-mail thanking Metro Deputies Pelczar and Mitchell for saving their vacation. A backpack containing their cruise tickets and passports was left on a Metro bus. They could not board the cruise line without these documents. After unsuccessful attempts to locate the bus they ran across the deputies and asked for assistance. The deputies were able to locate the bus and backpack and were able to get the family to the ship just before it left port. The family stated “Thank you very much for saving our cruise to Alaska and for not giving up.”

Metro Transit Police

Metro Police Officers received a commendation from a citizen who rides the Sounder Train. While she was waiting for the train at Kent Station there was a lot activity going on near the bus stops. When she arrived back at the Kent station that evening, two Metro Transit police cars were there with at least two uniformed officers. She further stated “I need to compliment your force. Every week day morning over the past week has been very quiet at the Kent Station bus stops and illegal activity isn't visually apparent. Please thank your officers for me - I'm sure a lot of people really appreciate the safer environment!”

Deputy Mike Behm

Deputy Behm received a letter from Sheriff Michael Whelan thanking him for his assistance in planning and coordinating strategy for an impending protest at the Port of Grays Harbor.

Chief Torgerson, City of Aberdeen, wrote to commend Deputy Behm for his assistance and expertise in working with his officers to teach them how to handle civil disturbance. His help was appreciated and worthwhile.

Deputies Brakbill, Devore, Jorgensen

A North Bend resident expressed his thanks and appreciation for a quick response to his 911 call that his child had run away from school. He commended the deputies for their professionalism and understanding of a parent’s worries and concerns when their child is missing.

Det. Bobbi Wilcox

Det. Wilcox received a letter from Absolute Software commending her for her Jim Doyon Detective of the Year Award and for her desire and intensity for her job. Her work is a benchmark for all investigators.

Sgt. Sydney Jackson and Kim Johnson, Div. Secretary

Sgt. Sydney Jackson, Air Support Unit, and Kim Johnson, Division Secretary of the Special Operations Section, received a letter from Ken Burnaw, Midway Chairman of the Green River District, Boy Scouts of America, thanking Sgt. Jackson for her participation in the Boy Scout Camporee event and Kim for making all the arrangements to get Sgt. Jackson and our helicopter there.

Deputy Jon Eirik-Hagen

Kerry Goodwin, Director of School Security, for Sonitrol Pacific Company wrote to thank Deputy Eirik-Hagen for his timely and professional response to an incident at the Helen Keller Elementary in Kirkland. His efforts resulted in the apprehension of two individuals.

Deputies Joseph Winters and Javier Patton

Deputies Winters and Patton received a letter from Bill and Marietta Stokes and their son Ian expressing their appreciation for the kind and professional care that they showed them when responding to the death of their son.

Guardian One and Crew

Councilmember Kathy Lambert sent an e-mail thanking Guardian One and Crew members for rescuing a boy scout who fell and broke his leg. The incident was near Snow Lake at Snoqualmie.

Deputy Adams

A Metro Transit Police commander received a letter of commendation for Deputy Adams from the Buttons and Bows Preschool. They expressed their sincere appreciation for the deputy taking the time out of his busy schedule to go to the preschool and go over personal safety topics with the students. “We appreciate the support of our youngsters.”

Detectives Volpe and Kearney, and Deputy Starrett

Sheriff Rahr received a letter commending the Detectives Volpe and Kearney and Deputy Starrett for “their level of professionalism, leadership and overall integrity”. The writer states the detectives showed “genuine empathy, were articulate and sensitive to his family’s concerns”. The deputy took control of a neighbor to neighbor incident (regarding the incident the detectives had previously responded to). She talked to the family and offered several alternatives to the situation. The author also writes, “they not only enforce the law, they administer the spirit of the law in fine order”.

Community Service Officer Vary Jackson, Pct #4, White Center Storefront

A letter was received at the Burien Precinct expressing the author’s sincere appreciation for CSO Jackson. The writer had stopped at the White Center Storefront to discuss problems he had been having at his vacant residence. CSO Jackson took the time to inquire about the property. As a result of Jackson’s interest, the vacant property is now in contract with a local development association for 30 affordable housing units. “If completed it will be an improvement and benefit to the White Center community”.

Officer T. Brewer

The chief of the Shoreline Police Department received a letter thanking Officer Brewer for the quick response after they made a call to report a vehicle had crashed into their fence and then left the scene. The homeowner writes that Brewer took the time to thoroughly investigate the scene and recovered evidence that he (Brewer) was able to use to track down the individual who did the damage. The homeowner states “that was some impressive police work on his part and I wanted to commend him for a job well done and to make you aware of his good work”.

Officer K. McCutchen

Officer McCutchen received a note of thanks for going out of his way to help a citizen find her dog. She writes “for the last few years she hasn’t been just a dog, but a huge blessing in my life” and thanks McCutchen for making it a priority to get her pet back.

Deputy Hancock

Sheriff Rahr received an e-mail commending Deputy Hancock for the work he is doing in the White Center area. The author (and business owner) states in part “Jeff Hancock is a real cop . . . he is personable and relates well with the folks in the community. Things have turned again for the better, clean folks can once again venture out on the streets, my business is back up and I notice foot traffic again.” He also adds “The other deputies are also doing a great job and I don’t want to slight any of the deputies we have in White Center”.

Deputy Todd Salter

Sheriff Rahr received an e-mail commending Deputy Salter for the work he did on a fraud case. The victims stated Salter worked diligently on their case to bring the suspected offender to justice, that Salter answered many questions and concerns they had and kept them informed at all times about the investigation. They felt he exemplifies the best of King County Officers and stated “in King County we are all safer as a result of his outstanding work”.

Community Service Officer Peter Truong

Special Agent Rodney Benson of the Drug Enforcement Administration wrote to commend Peter for his assistance in translating documents and interviewing cooperating witness for the prosecution of drug trafficking organizations. His expertise, dedication, and willingness to help another agency contributed greatly to the success of this investigation. Peter was also presented with a Drug Enforcement Administration Certificate of Appreciation.

Deputies Anthony Palmer, Brian Bonner, Vladimir Merclich, Jeffrey Harmon and others not named

The Precinct #3 Commander received an e-mail telling him what a fine job some of the troops in Precinct #3 were doing to help the citizens of their neighborhood, and to let him know how much they appreciate the concern and actions of the deputies. The citizen states they “have lived for over a year watching pit bulls run loose, obvious drug activity going on day and night, and vehicles coming and going by the hundreds monthly”. They have endured little sleep and fear for their safety. She says the officers listed are just “some” of those with whom they have been in weekly contact, relaying information they have and working to reclaim their neighborhood. She sends her thanks to them and sees victory ahead!

Deputy Andy Skaar

Deputy Skaar received the American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS) award for Valor at their annual law enforcement appreciation dinner. Andy is being recognized for his quick and decisive action, composure and professionalism in engaging KCSO Deputy Steve Cox’s killer immediately after Cox had been shot and for then assisting in rendering aid to the fallen deputy and the suspect. Skaar’s response to the threat undoubtedly saved others from serious injury or death.

Precinct Four Deputies

A note from a school principal was sent to the Commander of the Southwest Precinct on behalf of the administration and staff of the school “extending thanks and gratitude for the law enforcement assistance the King County Sheriff’s Office has delivered during the variety of incidents over the past few weeks. We very much appreciate the immediate response and support given to the community at large and more specifically to the (school) students and staff”.

Fire Chief Mike Marrs wrote to express his appreciation to Burien Precinct staff who responded to an incident at the Burien Fire Station. Quick thinking and quick response headed off a potentially disastrous incident which involved a fleeing armed robbery suspect who had crashed into the fire station. He stated the incident was handled in a very professional and compassionate way.

Deputy Brian Bonnar

The Maple Valley precinct “received no less than three phone calls from grateful residents for the way Deputy Bonnar handled an ongoing situation involving their neighbor”. All called to thank him for his directness and decisiveness in dealing with the problem. The Precinct Major acknowledged Bonnar’s willingness to take on this problem and “do the right thing.” In addition to the phone calls to the precinct, a call was also received at the Division Chief’s office at headquarters with the caller expressing their “kudos to Deputy Bonnar” and said it was “a job well done on the scene.”

Deputy Lon Shook

The Sherriff’s Office received a commendation to Deputy Shook via the Ombudsman’s Office from a victim of a pit bull attack. The writer states Deputy Shook “responded and worked the case with great and thorough diligence and the pit bull was apprehended”. It was also stated that “his dedication and assertiveness with the owner ensured that this animal was removed from the streets where many little children and adults walk and play . . . he deserves recognition for his superb work and support on this case”.

Marine Unit

The Marine Unit received a commendation from a lakeshore resident for the “fine job, which they do on Lake Washington” and mentioned of “three excellent experiences with them over the years.” Members of the Marine Unit are “cheerful as well as helpful and maneuvered the craft with skill and precision.” The residents “greatly appreciate the work that the Marine Patrol does during the summer, cruising the lake and watching for speeding, noisy, dangerous and illegal boating as well as assisting other boaters in trouble.”

Deputy Christopher Cross

A commendation letter was received from a couple expressing their sincere appreciation to Deputy Cross for his handling of an on-going neighbor dispute which he had been involved in mediating over a period of time. They were impressed with his ability to “maintain an impartial position, while demonstrating extreme professionalism during (his) attempts to work toward a mutual solution”.

Deputy Doug Reynolds

Neighbors living next to an area they had been having problems with contacted Deputy Reynolds on a couple of occasions. They wrote to say that, “he has always been courteous, thoughtful and a problem solver and they appreciate public officials like him.”

Deputies Charlie Akers and Eric Muller

Deputy Akers received a commendation letter from a citizen thanking him for helping find her husband who had been boating. Deputy Muller found her husband at a boat launch, she states the officer helped her husband carry the boat and several items and also helped put the boat on top of the car. “We can’t tell you how deeply grateful we are for the kindness and courteous help we received from all your officers”.

Deputy Bryan Hill 

Deputy Hill received a commendation letter from a citizen regarding the way he handled a disturbance complaint. The writer states, “Deputy Hill took the time to talk with our son, in an effort to determine the root of the problem”. The writer also states “Deputy Hill is an exemplary law enforcement officer and genuinely true human being. I have never before met or would have expected to meet an officer of the law that demonstrates such admirable qualities of compassion, caring, understanding and social skills.”

Deputy Stephen L. Johnson

Deputy Johnson was commended by a person who called 9-1-1 regarding a possible suicide by drug overdose of a friend. The caller stated that Deputy Johnson was met by a heavily (drug) impaired suspect with a gun and guard dog. “Johnson used a combination of training and instinct to diffuse the situation he (deputy) never overreacted and was in control of the situation and himself during the entire incident”. The writer closes by stating “Deputy Johnson was the difference between tragedy and treatment”.

Deputies Eric Muller, John Grose, and Patrick Kearney and Detective Mike Mellis

A purse snatch victim wrote to thank and express her appreciation to the listed deputies/detectives for the kindness and concern they showed her and her granddaughter throughout this incident as well as being happy the suspect was caught and will be prosecuted.

Deputy Cary Coblantz

KC Prosecutor Scott Leist thanked Cary for conducting two lengthy interviews with a victim that proved critical for the prosecution. His diligent effort laid the groundwork for the defendant’s eventual arrest. The suspect in this case was convicted of eight crimes and faces a minimum of 35-40 years in prison, effectively the rest of his life.

Captain Greg Thomas, Sergeant Tom Leppich, and Deputies Jim Juchmes, Joe Craig, Tim McClung, and Kerry Taniguchi

An e-mail kudos was received naming the listed captain, sergeant and deputies to commend the outstanding job each of them did working a motorcycle traffic problem in Fall City. The author stated that for the first time in many years they can sit outside without hearing and seeing the roar and speed of motorcycles. He also said that it felt like someone at King County cared enough to help them tackle the problem and believes the deputies made an impact on many riders and even a few cars.

Deputy Toney Griffith

An elderly couple wrote to express their gratitude to Toney for the time and effort she took to check on them during the recent power outage in the North Bend area after their son, who lives out of state, had been unable to contact them for two or three days. The couple wrote that it was a frightening and even dangerous six days for them and they appreciated everything Toney did.

Sergeant Kevin Fagerstrom and Deputy Timm Brewer

Shoreline PD received a letter from a wife thanking Sergeant Fagerstrom and Deputy Brewer for the professional and compassionate way they handled an incident involving a call about her husband’s irrational behavior. She states her husband also expressed his appreciation for their politeness and ability to keep the situation from escalating. Rather than going to jail the husband was able to see a doctor and have his medications adjusted.

Detective Kalvin Smith

A citizen who was dealing with an eviction for the first time wrote to compliment Detective Kalvin Smith on the way the matter was handled. The landlord said that Detective Smith was “…informative, helpful, courteous and helped to reduce a potentially stressful situation. I wasn't sure what would happen or how it would all play out. He managed the situation in a manner that dignified all of us.”

Deputy Chris Williams

The City of Covington announced that Chris has been recognized as a “Champion of Diversity” for his contributions to the schools and community by the Kent School District and the Alliance for Diversity and Equity. He takes every opportunity to speak with students about traffic safety issues and concerns, as well as presenting “life lessons” to the children as he interacts with them.

Deputy Todd Miller

The SeaTac Fire Department commended Deputy Miller for his heroic efforts in extricating and saving the life of an intoxicated male from the driver’s seat of his burning vehicle. Access to the vehicle was difficult at best but Miller managed to weave his way through the downed power lines and debris to rescue the driver. Miller managed to cut the driver’s seatbelt and pull him out of the driver’s side window. After being treated at a local hospital for injuries sustained in the accident, the driver was cited for DUI.

Deputy Eric White

A letter was received thanking Deputy White for the assistance he provided to a woman who had a flat tire on Highway 18 during a dark and cold night. She was on a desolate stretch of the highway and had tried several times to signal passing cars to no avail. Deputy White happened upon her, called a tow truck and waited with her until it arrived. She says he really went “the extra mile” for her.

Detective Loi Dawkins and Deputy Josh Gedney

A woman dropped off a letter thanking Detective Dawkins and Deputy Gedney for the care and compassion they showed her following the death of her husband of 59 years. She states “everything went like clockwork.” The deputies gently led her through all the necessary questions, contacted the husband’s doctor and funeral home, and all was performed before her daughters could get from their jobs to her home.

Deputy Cynthia Osborne

A couple wrote to express their pleasure after coming in contact with Deputy Osborne on a few occasions. They said she displays a genuine concern for their community as well as exhibiting a professional yet personal demeanor. She makes follow-up visits to inquire on how neighborhood issues are developing and is a “shining star” on the Sheriff’s Department personnel roster and represents the Department in an exemplary manner.

Sergeant Tony McNabb and Deputies Kevin Compton, Chad Devore, Joshua Sweeney, and Jon Hagen

The Medical Examiner’s Office recognized the listed sergeant, MPO and deputies on their assistance of a death investigation. He said “not only were they extremely patient, but carried the decedent down ¾ of a mile through a hiking trail. I felt like I should let someone know they went above and beyond and it was very much appreciated”.

Sergeant Mike Starrett

Sammamish P. D. received a letter from a resident complimenting Sammamish Sergeant Starrett on his initiative to help with a problem. A church and preschool have had on-going problems with threats from a neighbor. Sergeant Starrett offered to come by and talk to the group. The next night, he met with the Bishop’s Committee to talk about the issues; the following evening he met with approximately 100 parents and stayed the entire meeting. The writer states “I was very impressed with Sergeant Starrett. He clearly described the Sammamish Police Department’s commitment to the safety of school children and the department’s impressive capabilities and training”.

Deputy Rob Henry

Precinct #2 received a phone call from a resident expressing his appreciation for the help Deputy Henry gave him. The caller stated he had a fraud case that no one would help him with. Deputy Henry got involved and assisted the victim. The caller was impressed that the deputy stepped up and followed up with the case.