He is known as a go-to guy and one who never lets his colleagues down.
That's what Temple Terrace police Capt. Mike Pridemore said when describing Cpl. John Spala, who was named the 2010 Police Officer of the Year during the June 7 city council meeting.
"Cpl. Spala has proven himself time and time again to be one of Temple Terrace Police Department's most valuable employees," Pridemore said. "He is a credit to himself, his squad and the organization."
Spala, 40, is a 20-year veteran of the department. He serves as the team leader of the crisis response team and supervisor of the traffic fatality unit.
Pridemore commended Spala for his knowledge and professionalism during the department's recent accreditation process and his competency in handling his day-to-day duties.
Officer William Wesley Cooper was also honored at the meeting with the 2010 Jennifer Baker Memorial DUI Enforcement Award, which is presented in honor of Jennifer Baker, a Temple Terrace resident killed Oct. 15, 1995, by a drunken driver.
Last year Cooper made 34 DUI arrests, the highest number within the department. In fact, he has led the department in DUI arrests for four consecutive years.
Jennifer's parents, Susan and Terry Baker, were on hand for the presentation. Since their daughter's death, the longtime Temple Terrace couple have worked fervently with law enforcement officials and Mothers Against Drunk Driving to help keep impaired motorists off the road.
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement
Advertisement