Island officers among police honoured at annual ceremony

Members of BC’s law enforcement bodies were feted Thursday night at the 38th annual Police Honours Night at Government House.

The event recognized law enforcement members in municipal police forces, the RCMP, First Nations, Combined Special Enforcement Unit and transit police services for bravery and dedication in their duties.

“It takes a special kind of person to serve in law enforcement, those who know the dangers and challenges of their profession but remain committed to serve with pride and never shy away from their duty,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General.

30 officers received the award of valour, the highest award for a police officer in B.C, including 14 individuals from around Vancouver Island.

Some of the recipients included officers from Nanaimo RCMP who enlisted the aid of bystanders to help lift a motor vehicle and extract a woman being asphyxiated under the engine block and members from North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP who rescued a woman trapped in a car hanging off a riverbank.

Two constables with VicPD, Kevin Nystedt and Tristan Williams also received the award of valour for removing a resistant suspect of a domestic dispute and extinguishing the fire the suspect had started in his residence.

Another VicPD constable, Kelsi Yoxall was recognized along with 83 other officers for meritorious service. Yoxall performed life-saving first aid to a suicidal male with a self-inflicted neck wound.

VicPD Chief Del Manak tweeted a photo of himself with Nystedt, Williams, and Yoxall, along with the caption “Congrats to the 3 @vicpdcanada  officers & the other 111 officers for being awarded the Valorous and Meritorious Service awards at Police Honours Night by @LGJanetAustin at Govt House. Officers risking their lives to save others & exemplary service. True Heroes. #Respect”

The awards were presented by Farnworth and Lt. Gov. Janet Austin.

“Those recognized tonight have demonstrated exemplary courage and conviction,” Austin said. “It is an honour to hear the stories of these brave men and women, who serve British Columbians often at the risk of their own lives. We thank them for their service and acknowledge all who support them to do such impactful work for the province.”

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