Essex County Chief Detective Gets Coretta Scott King Leadership Award

Montclair Mayor Robert Jackson and Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Chief Detective Quovella Spruill were honored for their contributions to the local community as part of Essex County’s 13th Annual African American History Month Celebration.

During a Wednesday ceremony, Essex County officials presented Jackson with the Essex County Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Leadership Award and Spruill with the Coretta Scott King Leadership Award.

Both of the honorees have made significant contributions to the community and their dedication truly captures the dignity and determination of the King family, a county news release stated.

“Chief Quovella Spruill and Mayor Robert Jackson are role models who have dedicated their professional lives to public service,” Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo Jr. stated.

Spruill and Jackson also received words of commendation from U.S. Senator Robert Menendez and U.S Congressman Donald Payne during Wednesday’s ceremony.

“I am honored to be recognized with an award named for Coretta Scott King,” Spruill said. “Look at what she did during a time of civil unrest, having her husband taken from her and continuing his legacy.”

“When I contemplate my name being linked to Martin Luther King, Jr., the platform allows me to thank those who have helped me along the way,” Jackson said. “As we celebrate this day, let’s rededicate ourselves as thundering drums of excellence, service and compassion.”

• See related article: 1st African-American Chief Detective Instated In Essex County
• See related article: Montclair NAACP to Honor Mayor Jackson

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Photo courtesy of Montclair Township