MADD California Salute Heroes At
2013 Law Enforcement & Community Recognition Dinner
Sacramento – Individuals, agencies and organizations from across the
state were honored Saturday by MADD California for their work and
dedication to Eliminate Drunk Driving. The 15th Anniversary of the MADD
California Statewide Law Enforcement & Community Recognition Dinner
– One Step at a Time, was held on June 1, 2013, at the Hyatt Regency
Sacramento. MADD recognized law enforcement officials, government
agencies and community advocates from throughout the state, who have
gone beyond the call of duty to combat drunk driving, educate the public
on the effects of this violent crime and who have done their part in
maintaining safer roadways and communities.
Over 500 people were in attendance from 50 of California’s 58
counties to attend this prestigious gala. Awards are given to individual
officers, departments, state park agencies, media, and community
partners whose actions and policies are aligned with our mission to stop
drunk driving, support the victims of this violent crime and prevent
underage drinking.
Andrew Theodore from the Sonora Police Department was awarded with
the MADD California Hero Award for his contribution to help MADD achieve
its mission to stop drunk driving, support the victims of this violent
crime, and prevent underage drinking.
Officer Theodore attended Drug Recognition Expert Training at
the California Highway Patrol Academy. Upon his return from the Highway
Patrol Academy, Officer Theodore made 40 driving under the influence
arrests. Most of the arrests were for driving under the influence of
controlled substances and prescription medications.
“The officers recognized with the MADD California Hero Award are
experts in the field of impaired driving enforcement. They are leaders
in the department in arrests, prevention efforts, and training. Over
160 officers were recognized for the efforts over the last year and we
believe that all of the officers have certainly saved lives by removing
impaired drivers from California’s roads.” Said Silas Miers, MADD
California Program Manager.
The California Statewide Law Enforcement & Community Recognition
event is not just an awards ceremony; it is a powerful medium
acknowledging the courage and strength of the members of our community
who stand up every day to make us safer. Funding for this program was
provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety,
through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
MADD is a non-profit organization with approximately 2 million members
and supporters and 600 affiliates nationwide. MADD’s mission is to stop
drunk driving, support the victims of this violent crime and prevent
underage drinking. To learn more, contact your local MADD affiliate or
visit www.madd.org.
Please remember—DUI crashes are not “accidents.”
