More than 100 law enforcement officers from across Kentucky were recognized this week for their efforts to protect drivers and passengers.
“Annually, a member from each agency across the commonwealth is recognized for their efforts in seat belt enforcement by way of the governor’s Occupant Protection Award,” said Elizabethtown Police Department Public Information Officer Chris Denham.
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s Office of Highway Safety presents the award to officers with the most occupant protection citations in each agency from July 1 to June 30. Officers from 91 agencies were recognized, including officers from local agencies.
“This year’s recipient from the Elizabethtown Police Department is Officer Gary Mark,” Denham said. “Gary is a stellar officer and a tremendous asset, not only to the EPD but to the entire community.”
Other area officers recognized include Deputy Chad Edward Simpson from the Bullitt County Sheriff’s Office, Trooper Eric Hines with Kentucky State Police Post Four, Chief Deputy Jamie Ferrie with the Larue County Sheriff’s Office, Sergeant Thomas Blair with the Nelson County Sheriff’s Office, and Lieutenant Mark Kirkpatrick with the Radcliff Police Department.
The KYTC says Kentucky’s current seat belt usage rate is 86.9 percent, and more than half of those killed in Kentucky roadway accidents are not properly restrained.
