Friday, May 22, 2015

Crime Prevention Fund Names Officer Of The Year

Edina, Minn., May 12, 2015 – Edina Police Officer Jake Heckert has been named the 2014 Mike Siitari Officer of the Year by the Edina Crime Prevention Fund. He will receive the award at the June 2 City Council meeting.

“I am honored … especially since I’ve only been here for a little over two years,” said Heckert. “I don’t have enough good words to say about the Department -- about how well they treat employees, whether you’ve worked there 40 years or are brand new.”

Heckert began his career with the Minnetrista Police Department in 2005 after receiving his bachelor’s degree in Law Enforcement from Minnesota State University, Mankato. Heckert joined the Edina Police Department as a Patrol Officer in 2013. 

Throughout his career, Heckert has made it a priority to keep the roads as safe as possible. Last year, Heckert made 56 DWI arrests, more than any other officer in the Department. He was recently recognized by Mothers Against Drunk Driving for his DWI patrol efforts, earning him a Silver Pin Top Enforcer Award.

Heckert’s arrests were also one of the reasons the Minnesota State Patrol Division of the Department of Public Safety recently awarded the Edina Police Department a four-year DWI enforcement grant to reduce drunk and impaired driving on Edina roadways.

“Officer Heckert’s passion for his job, coupled with his proactive personality and the fact that he’s a very hard worker is impressive,” said Police Chief Dave Nelson. “He’s a great example for all of our new officers.”

These are just a few of the qualities that helped Heckert recently become a Training Officer, working to train officers new to the Department.

In a letter nominating Heckert for the award, Sgt. Nate Mendel wrote, “Officer Heckert’s dedication to the safety of the residents of Edina is what our organization strives for. It is my hope that his high drive and work ethic will be imparted upon our newest recruits.”

The Mike Siitari Officer of the Year award is given to one Edina Police Officer each year who goes above and beyond the call of duty. Nominations from the public and City employees are accepted; winners are selected by the Edina Crime Prevention Fund. The Edina Crime Prevention Fund has been a community partner for more than 40 years, helping fund Police Department services and recognize exceptional officers.

Past recipients of the award, named in honor of former Police Chief Mike Siitari, include Detective Mike Lutz, Officer Dave Lindman and Officer Joel Moore.

For more information about the Officer of the Year Award, contact the Edina Police Department at 952-826-1610. 

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The City of Edina
4801 W. 50th St., Edina, MN 55424
mail@EdinaMN.gov 952-927-8861

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