Dixon Police Department Names Officer Of Year

DIXON, CA – Announcement from the Dixon Police Department:

The Dixon Police Department would like to congratulate Officer Alberto Cruz who was selected as Dixon's Police Officer of the Year.

Officer Cruz demonstrates an interest in his work that is admirable. When meeting with reporting parties or victims he is patient and demonstrates empathy and understanding. He takes extra time to explain his actions with concerned parties. His investigations are thorough and his reports are well written. He takes pride in providing excellent service to the public.

Officer Cruz is known by his co-workers and supervisors as an extremely hard worker and team player with a selfless attitude. While balancing his own case load, he looks out for his fellow officers and routinely volunteers to handle their calls or assist with their investigations. He starts his shift early and volunteers to handle calls for the previous shift, so those officers can go home on time. One of his supervisors described him as being the hardest worker he knows. Another supervisor said he routinely stays late, works diligently, and has to be forced to fill out an overtime slip.

During the past year our department experienced a staffing shortage. Officer Cruz did more than his share when it came to covering patrol shifts. When his co-workers needed a day off or called in sick, he regularly volunteered to cover the shift. Also, officers often go to Officer Cruz because they know he is willing to help out.

Officer Cruz serves as a Field Training Officer. He is committed to ensuring new officers are properly trained and prepared to work as solo officers. For example, he is often chosen to be the first Training Officer because he is patient, thorough, and methodical in the training he provides. Another example, after the trainees have completed their formal training they feel comfortable going back to Officer Cruz for advice.

Officer Cruz has represented himself and the department in a positive way. It’s common for members of the community to come up to other officers on the street and ask how Officer Cruz is or request they tell Officer Cruz “hello.” He has mentored disadvantaged and at–risk youth and he donates his time to youth groups at Saint Peters Catholic Church. His reputation within the Spanish speaking community has further fostered trust toward our Department.

As such, he is highly regarded in our community. For example, during criminal investigations it is not uncommon for community members to come forward, on their own, and provide Officer Cruz pertinent information that helps solve crimes in our city.

He has consistently given his all in serving our community and being a leader in our department. For that the Dixon Police Department is proud to name Alberto Cruz as its 2016 Officer of the Year.