AKRON OPTIMIST CLUB "PHILIP G. BARNES POLICE OFFICER OF THE YEAR AWARD"
In 1986, the Akron Optimist Club established an award to honor an Akron Police officer each year. The award is given "In recognition of outstanding service to the community." The creation of the award was also intended as an honor for the man it was named after, Philip G. Barnes, former Chief of Police.

2002 - GARY SHADIE

Gary was appointed to the Department May 8, 1989. After assignments in the Patrol Bureau and SNUD Unit, he joined the Juvenile Bureau in June of 2000. He is responsible for investigating cases of child sexual and physical abuse. He constantly demonstrates leadership, teamwork and self motivation. His competence, dedication and work ethic is obvious in his thorough case investigations and court preparedness. Always willing to assist other detectives in their serious investigations, Gary still maintains one of the highest clearance ratings in the unit.


2001 - AGOSTINO MICOZZI

Agostino was appointed December 26, 1994. He consistently demonstrates the qualities and professionalism that cast a positive light on the Akron Police Department in the community. he participates in two newly created departmental committees (Cultural Diversity and Patrol Staffing Analysis). Despite working one of the busiest districts, he regularly attends area block watch meetings and advises other officers of problems and concerns. His leadership and distinguished performance in the field truly make him deserving of recognition.
2000 - VINCENT BENSON

Vince Benson was appointed December 23, 1980. After six years in the Patrol Division, Vince transferred to the Detective Bureau, Juvenile/Auto Theft/Missing Persons Unit. He quickly become proficient investigating the extremely sensitive crimes of abuse against children. His naturally compassionate, caring nature endeared him to the victims and their families. Thanks to his dedication and desire, Vince has assisted victims and their loved ones through the often lengthy healing process these vicious crimes require.


2000 - VINCENT BENSON

Vince Benson was appointed December 23, 1980. After six years in the Patrol Division, Vince transferred to the Detective Bureau, Juvenile/Auto Theft/Missing Persons Unit. He quickly become proficient investigating the extremely sensitive crimes of abuse against children. His naturally compassionate, caring nature endeared him to the victims and their families. Thanks to his dedication and desire, Vince has assisted victims and their loved ones through the often lengthy healing process these vicious crimes require.
1999 - LLOYD FORD

Lloyd Ford was appointed September 10, 1984, and is currently assigned to the C.O.P.S. Unit. He is the Weed and Seed coordinator and is actively involved in the Juvenile Diversion Program. Lloyd serves as a role model for younger people. He is a dedicated and conscientious officer, always doing more than is required. He has also been instrumental in a pilot program for in-school suspensions which, due to its success, is being copied at other high schools.

1999 - LLOYD FORD

Lloyd Ford was appointed September 10, 1984, and is currently assigned to the C.O.P.S. Unit. He is the Weed and Seed coordinator and is actively involved in the Juvenile Diversion Program. Lloyd serves as a role model for younger people. He is a dedicated and conscientious officer, always doing more than is required. He has also been instrumental in a pilot program for in-school suspensions which, due to its success, is being copied at other high schools.
1998 - ROBERT VANEK

Robert Vanek, known inside the department as an innovator, was appointed July 8, 1991. He is assigned to the Uniform Subdivision. Through his initiative, he has rid his district of felons who have preyed on residents in the area for years. he has been commended on his accurate work and his excellent judgment on calls. He has received numerous commendations from the department and has also received many letters of appreciation from citizens he has assisted.

1998 - ROBERT VANEK

Robert Vanek, known inside the department as an innovator, was appointed July 8, 1991. He is assigned to the Uniform Subdivision. Through his initiative, he has rid his district of felons who have preyed on residents in the area for years. he has been commended on his accurate work and his excellent judgment on calls. He has received numerous commendations from the department and has also received many letters of appreciation from citizens he has assisted.
 

1997 - BRIAN REILLY

Brian Reilly became an officer on September 10, 1984, and is currently assigned to the Detective Bureau in the Major Crimes Unit. He has been lauded by other departments for catching felony suspects, by the Summit County prosecutor's office for his case preparation, for his work with youths in preventing drug abuse, and by an area hospital for his efforts to prevent a suicide. He has received 21 commendations in the 12 years he has been an Akron officer. His peers have nothing but praise for his professionalism and tenacity.

1996 - JEFFREY MULLINS

Jeffrey Mullins was appointed July 8, 1991. He sets a fine example to all other officers by his positive work ethic and calm demeanor in stressful circumstances. He is ever vigilant, alert, and most observant and has on many occasions solved serious crimes with his ingenuity, investigative skills, and street wise intellect. He has received numerous commendations from the Chief's office during his five years on the department. he is an outstanding and professional police officer and a valuable asset to the Akron Police Department.

1995
MARCUS A. MILLER
1994
RONALD PERELLA
1993
MICHAEL CIANCIOLA
1992
HUGH SULLIVAN

1991
ROBERT BENNETT
1990
GARY LUCAS
1990
THOMAS HARRISON
1989
ERVIN ODOM

 
1988
ROBERT NOLAND
1987
BRUCE A. REED
1986
FRANK MARTUCCI
 

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