Even during unprecedented times, the Aiken Department of Public Safety honored its officers during its annual awards banquet on July 23.
Several awards were given out, in addition to honoring members who scored over 80% on the physical fitness test and officers who received the DUI Hero Award.
Multiple officers and first responders were presented Certificates of Commendation and Lifesaving Medals.
In years past, the banquet welcomed a variety of guests including families and retired officers; however, this year's banquet was more intimate and drew a smaller crowd consisting of award winners and officers due to COVID-19 restrictions.
"You continue to help people you don't even know," Chief Charles Barranco with Aiken Public Safety said at the banquet, according to a news release from Public Safety. "It does not matter what religion someone is, their skin color, or even how much money someone makes. You respond to all, and that's how it should be."
Public Safety issued its first Chief's Award to a citizen, sworn or non-sworn employee, who has performed an invaluable service to the department.
Angela Hale from the City of Aiken's IT Operations was presented the award for assisting Public Safety with several projects, including providing technical guidance that supported the implementation of the camera system in downtown Aiken and small, everyday tasks such as changing passwords or setting up emails.
Each year, the department awards Officer of the Year to a sworn officer who has demonstrated exceptional achievement and/or exceeded the duty requirements expected of his or her position throughout the past year.
The award is the highest honor an officer can receive at Aiken Public Safety.
Detective Dawn Dasher was honored as this year's Officer of the Year recipient after serving in Public Safety's Youth Services department for the past two years.
Drasher can often be found staying late and working through lunch to get the job done.
She's resumed old investigations, leading to felony charges and convictions, and has worked tirelessly to hone her interviewing skills and strives to make children in dire need feel safe and secure, according to the release.
She also assists in a senior girls’ mentoring program at Aiken High School.
As the banquet concluded, Barranco encouraged employees to keep up the good work and "let their heart shine through as they work together to serve their community."
"As a public servant, you treat citizens with respect each time contact is made, even when they do not show the same," Barranco said. "This is the standard set by many before us, and you have taken it to a new level for this community we love."
