The annual Congressional District Law Enforcement Awards ceremony hosted by U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan to honor law enforcement officers and departments in Florida’s 16th District was held recently at the Manatee Performing Arts Center.
“Every day, these brave men and women put themselves in harm’s way to enforce our laws and protect the public,” said Buchanan, who established the awards 14 years ago. “Now, more than ever, they need and deserve our gratitude and respect. I believe these awards are a fitting tribute to our officers, and their four-legged partners, and serve as an important reminder of the vital role they play in our communities.”
So far in 2024, 71 federal, state, and municipal officers have died in the line of duty, according to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund .
The winners were selected by an independent panel of current and retired law enforcement personnel.
Above and Beyond the Call of Duty Award: Lieutenant Nicholas Pruitt, Deputies Michael Ates, Althavia Brown, James Forkin, and Christopher Houghton, and Detective Dwight Roberts of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.