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Exceptional police work honoured by the community

Oct. 28, 2022, Whitby, Ont. – A Durham Regional Police Service officer lifted a heavy metal fence to save the life of child trapped under a mountain of snow. Another officer didn’t stop fighting for a distraught mother whose child had been taken to a foreign country by her estranged spouse. These are just some of the amazing police responses highlighted at the 18^th annual Police Appreciation and Awards Night (PADAN) that was held on Oct. 27.

After a two-year hiatus, this year’s theme was “Stand By Me” and it not only thanked officers for always being by the side of community but also thanked the support of PADAN for standing by the officers we depend upon for their tenacity, strength and compassion.

Cst. Wheaton and Cst. Williams were recognized for their efforts that saved the lives of two children trapped in a snowbank and under a fence after a plow accidentally buried them in their schoolyard.

Det. Dellipizzi and (ret) Det. MacFarlane didn’t give up after a child was abducted by his father and taken to Armenia. The two helped reunite the child with his mother after two years of dedication.

Mike Ewles Community Builder Award: Cst. Dowdle was instrumental in creating legislation changes that support families after a loved one commits suicide in their home.

New award: PADAN created the Dave Selby Civilian Achievement Award in honour of the retired Director of Corporate Communications who transformed how the Service communicates with the public and made positive impacts in the industry.