Detective Melia Dickinson of the Metropolitan Police Department’s Youth and Family Services Division was honored with an Achievement Medal by Chief of Police Pamela A. Smith. The award, given on February 12, 2024, acknowledges Dickinson’s outstanding work in tackling child-related crimes.
In November 2023, Dickinson was informed about a minor who had been sexually exploited by an adult. The case involved members of the deaf and hard of hearing community, leading Dickinson to work with MPD’s Deaf and Hard of Hearing Unit for the investigation.
Dickinson’s detailed investigation uncovered that the adult suspect had been perpetrating crimes against multiple children over several years. Her diligent work in identifying previous victims and collecting key evidence resulted in the suspect’s arrest. The suspect is now facing charges of First Degree Child Sexual Abuse, Felony Stalking, Fourth Degree Sexual Abuse, and Blackmail.
Chief Smith commended Dickinson’s work, stating that her efforts serve as a benchmark for the department. She highlighted the important role of the Youth and Family Services Division in combating child abuse.