MOUNT VERNON — Skill, professionalism, and experience are among the reasons officers in the Mount Vernon Police Department chose Patrolman Justin Trowbridge as Officer of the Year.
The Officer of the Year Award is presented to an officer who is selected by his or her peers through a secret ballot.
“With 19 years of dedicated service, Ptl. Trowbridge, who was selected for the traffic patrol position about a year and a half ago, has not only surpassed our expectations but also showcased a wealth of experience,” said Lt. Reginald Young, training and compliance officer.
“Furthermore, the officer’s advanced training in crash investigations adds a specialized skill set, enhancing the effectiveness in handling complex situations within the realm of traffic management.”
Trowbridge started with the MVPD in 2003 as an auxiliary patrolman. He moved to full time in November 2004 and has been the union’s bargaining unit representative since 2009.
He was a field training officer from 2013 to 2020 and served as the Knox County Fraternal Order of Police Lodge treasurer/secretary from 2018 to 2023.
Trowbridge was named to his current position as traffic safety officer in 2022.
“Ptl. Trowbridge is considered one of the most well-versed members of the department in union matters and has been a key part of the contract negotiation team multiple times,” Capt. Andrew Burns said. “His current assignment as the dayshift traffic enforcement officer has provided Ptl. Trowbridge with a platform to showcase his talents, particularly in his passion for traffic crash investigations and his zeal for traffic and parking enforcement.”
Trowbridge’s productivity and drive resulted in 1,010 arrests, 199 crash reports, and 610 warnings issued in 2023.
“His diligent efforts to promote safety for motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians alike in our city has also had the effect of relieving patrol units from these responsibilities to a large degree, allowing officers to focus on other patrol assignments, investigations, and response,” Burns said.
“Ptl. Trowbridge has also shared his enthusiasm for motor vehicle laws and traffic enforcement with different community groups, and he has taken a lead role especially with raising awareness as new laws, such as texting while driving, become part of the public discussion.”
“I believe Justin was born for this role as our lead traffic patrol officer. His judgment and professionalism have helped make our city streets safer, especially those neighborhoods surrounding our school zones,” Mayor Matt Starr said.
“Undoubtedly, as our community grows, we will likely need to add more traffic patrol officers, so it’s great to know that we have a leader in place to develop that part of our services through the police department.”
Other awards
Trowbridge received the award on Jan. 26. The MVPD recognized other officers at its evening banquet.
Patrolman Joshua D. Neely received a Certificate of Achievement for demonstrating outstanding commitment to impaired driver enforcement for 2023. In doing so, he led the department with 46 OVI enforcement actions.
“Your dedication and perseverance have undoubtedly contributed to this achievement and your success. We thank you for your unwavering work ethic and determination,” Burns said.
Patrolman Paige L. Sims received a Certificate of Recognition for outstanding contribution in taking over and managing the L.E.A.D.S. program and becoming the T.A.C. officer for the department. In doing so, Sims brought the MVPD into full compliance with state requirements.
“Your dedication and perseverance have undoubtedly contributed to our efficiency and overall success while maintaining the highest standards required by our department,” Burns said. “We thank you for your unwavering ethics and hard work.”
A Certificate of Meritorious Conduct award went to Det. Timothy P. Arnold for demonstrating outstanding dedication and commitment to investigating and apprehending child sexual assault offenders during 2023.
“Your devotion and perseverance to protecting the children of our community not only demonstrates the highest standards of the Mount Vernon Police Department but shows your fortitude in accomplishing these most difficult and trying tasks,” Burns said.
The department honored Chaplain Jerry C. Scott with the Distinguished Service Award for his “dedication, devotion, and friendship to the officers, staff, and families of the Mount Vernon Police Department and the members of our community.”
“Your ministry of presence, compassion, and mentorship have undoubtedly impacted and enhanced the lives of those you have touched in the most positive of ways,” Burns said.
Sarah Wheeler was also recognized at the banquet. She received the Bartlett Award earlier in 2023 for her dedication to taking drugs off the streets.
