National Police Week Observed

From left, Artesia Police Department Officer Pete Quinones, APD Sgt. Ricardo Huerta, APD Commander Milo Olivas, NMSP Officer Dustin Lockridge, APD Cpl. Angela Phillips, APD Sgt. Scott London, APD Commander Richard Martinez, APD Records Clerk Jamie Johnson, APD Animal Control Officer Richard Schulz, APD Cpl. Esteban Sepulveda, Eddy County Detention Center (ECDC) Sgt. Amy Russell, APD Executive Assistant Diana Coronado, APD Prosecuting Attorney Liaison Becky Wonenberg, ECDC Officer Anthony Gonzalez, APD Commander Guy Chavarria, APD Chief of Police Don Raley, APD Sgt. Lindell Smith and (front) APD’s most recent addition, McGruff the Crime Dog, pose for a picture in observance of National Police Week held annually from May 9 to May 15. Smith said the week was instituted in 1962 under President John F. Kennedy to honor the commitment and sacrifices made by police officers nationwide. He also noted it is important to remember the week not only recognizes commissioned and certified police officers but also police department staff who provide support for officers in the field. “The week is held to honor the large gamut of people, both behind the scenes and on the front line, who work day in and day out to protect the American way of life.”