Courage, sacrifice and service to community were prominently on display last Thursday night as the province recognized 121 men and women of law enforcement at the annual Police Honours at Government House in Victoria.
Among those honoured were 10 Delta police officers — nine presented with a Meritorious Service Medal and one with the Award of Valour.
The Award of Valour, the highest award for a police officer in B.C., was presented to Const. Jordan MacWilliams, who on Nov. 8, 2012 was a member of the Municipal Integrated Emergency Response Team that responded to the Queensborough area in New Westminster in relation to man with a gun holding a female hostage.
“Const. MacWilliams (along with the attending members) demonstrated personal courage and selflessness and a clear dedication to his duty to protect and preserve life while risking his own safety in the process,” said Delta police public affairs coordinator Sharlene Brooks.
Meritorious Service Medals, which are awarded to officers who go above and beyond the normal call of duty, were presented to Sgt. Jill Long and constables Martin Levangie, Scott Formby, Robb Semler, Ken Kirk, Sean Cessford, Chris Ward and Gwen Vaughan-Smith for a major drug bust.
In August of 2015, DPD received information about possible drug activity in South Delta that prompted an investigation that spanned several months. Officers employed a number of investigative strategies that led to the execution of search warrants across the Lower Mainland.
The investigation concluded with the seizure of drugs valued at $1.2 million, $1.5 million in cash, nine firearms and the dismantling of one of the largest fentanyl labs seen in Canada at that time. Five people were arrested and charged. This matter is still before the courts.
“These Delta police officers worked tirelessly on this protracted and complex investigation. As a result of their efforts, as a collective team, they disrupted a lucrative drug operation and kept a substantial amount of dangerous drugs and guns off of our streets,” said Brooks.
Const. Sonny Buttar also received a Meritorious Service Medal.
Buttar was a member of the CFSEU investigative team tasked with solving numerous arson and shooting attacks on homes and vehicles belonging to people that had an association with the JIBC. There were over 20 offences that occurred between April 2011 and January 2012.
Buttar played a key role on this investigative team in both a managerial and operational capacity. He spearheaded a comprehensive arrest plan that led to the successful arrest of both suspects involved.
“It is a humbling experience to witness the acknowledgement of so many police officers from across the province who demonstrate steadfast commitment and sacrifice in their service to their respective communities,” said Chief Neil Dubord. “I am so very proud to stand with, and share in this prestigious recognition of 10 of our officers. They are all most deserving.”
