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.
Officer Larry Gaines from the Desert Hot Springs Police Department was awarded 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. The Police Department was also recognized for its efforts and participation in MADD’s mission. Officer Gaines will be recognized at tonight’s City Council meeting at the Carl May Center, 11711 West Drive, in Desert Hot Springs at 5:00 PM.
“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.”
