Lakewood Police Department
Policy and Procedure

 Effective Date: 11/15/2023
Policy Number: PP-3401 - Citizen Awards

A. Policy

The police cannot, without the support and cooperation of the citizens whom they serve, accomplish the effective investigation, prosecution, and reduction of crime.  Each citizen must recognize his obligation to the community and his shared responsibility for its welfare.  The department seeks to further the acceptance of these duties through recognition of those citizens whose actions have contributed to the apprehension of criminals, the prevention of crime, or the safety of the community.

B. Procedure

1. The following awards are established for exceptional service by private citizens:

a. Citizen Citation for Valor - A plaque is awarded to a private citizen for assistance rendered to the police, which involves the extreme risk of life to the citizen.

b. Citizen Citation for Distinguished Service - A plaque is awarded to a private citizen for an act, which involves significant risk to the life of the citizen and may involve the saving of a life or significant assistance to the police department in carrying out its mission.

c. Citizen Citation for Meritorious Service - A certificate is awarded to a private citizen for an act which involves uncommon risk to the citizen when providing assistance to the police department or for an act which results in the saving of a life or attempted saving of a life in which extraordinary efforts were used and uncommon risk to the citizen was involved.  This award may also be given to a citizen or volunteer for highly professional conduct, performance or significant achievement in support of the police department.

d. Citizen Commendation - A letter of commendation is awarded to a private citizen for significant assistance rendered to the police department in achieving its mission, but which is less than a distinguished or meritorious act in nature.  This award may also be given for a notable effort, which results in the saving of a life in which no personal risk is involved.   

                      
2. These awards, provided that they are approved by the police department Command Staff, shall be presented in a manner designated by the Chief of Police or his designee.

3. Citizen Commendations may be awarded at the discretion of the Chief of Police based upon a recommendation from any source.  Citizen Commendations are not required to go through the same formal review process as for department personnel. 

 

PP-3402 - Awards Review Board