MARYSVILLE – The Marysville Police Department at a recent department gathering honored recipients of several awards and commendations presented to members of the Marysville law enforcement community and the people who support them.

Training Police Officer Emma Stiles was named Officer of the Year. The near 25-year veteran officer was honored for her diligence, enthusiasm and commitment to developing and carrying out training and recruiting processes. She has been a “go-to” person for special projects including Special Olympics and NAMOA (North American Motor Officers Association), which held its annual conference this year at the Tulalip Casino. Chief Rick Smith said her involvement is a testament to team player attitude.

Adam Veach was named Custody Officer of the Year. In his nearly four years on the job in the Marysville Jail, he has displayed a high-energy work ethic, and has always been willing to step up and assist others department-wide before being asked, Smith said.

Civilian of the Year accolades went to Crime Analyst Don Castanares for his high-caliber work ethic and ability to always produce requested work product and information in a timely manner. His behind-the- scenes work exemplifies the importance of “Team” over self, Smith said.

Supervisor of the Year was presented to Sgt. Mark Thomas who has nearly 20 years in law enforcement work. In that time, he has demonstrated a regular willingness to take on additional projects, and has mentored many employees new to the department without being asked, exemplifying the department’s vision of a supervisor.

The Chief’s Meritorious Service Award was presented to the N.I.T.E. Team. N.I.T.E. is an acronym for Neighborhood livability, Intelligence investigations, Targeted enforcement and arrest of felony and misdemeanor offenders, and Education. The pro-active team founded in 2008 consists of a Sergeant and three officers who, through their high energy and swift-action response, have accounted for the single most significant impact on crime reduction in Marysville, Smith said.

The Chief’s Special Recognition Award honored Dr. Tim O’Rourke and Roy Robinson Chevrolet-Subaru General Manager Gordy Bjorg for their continued support of Marysville Police Department operations through vehicle donations for programs, veterinary support for police K-9s, and special projects such as the Marysville Volunteer Program and Special Olympics.

“Your honor and loyalty to the police department are immeasurable,” Chief Smith said.

Certificates of Commendation were awarded to Castanares for his excellent work tracking two homicide suspects across the Midwest, which led to their arrest and successful prosecution; Records Specialist Diana Vanderschel for her willingness to do more than is expected by agreeing to step into a full-time position; Property/Evidence Specialist Patricia Duemmell for continually volunteering to represent Marysville Police in Special Olympics and other fundraising activities; and Officer Paul McShane for his dedication and efforts to organize and coordinate department members for the Lake Stevens Triathlon.