By Mike Hazlip—
The Citrus Heights Police Department held a virtual awards ceremony Tuesday to honor the actions of some of its officers and also recognize retirements and promotions of various employees.
The event was live streamed by the city, and the mayor and other community leaders participated remotely.
Three officers were awarded the Life Saving Ribbon award during the presentation. Officer Jeff Schouten received the award for a July 13, 2021 incident at Smashburger in the Sunrise Marketplace. Two employees arrived at the location when one of them collapsed and began showing signs of an overdose, according to reports. Officer Schouten arrived within minutes and began rendering aid for over six minutes until paramedics arrived. The victim’s brother credited officer Schouten with saving his brother’s life.
In another incident just outside the city, a Citrus Heights officer assisted in responding to a Jan. 15 gang-related shooting.
Sacramento County Sheriff’s deputies were conducting an operation near Rampart Drive when a suspect fired at officers. A deputy was struck during an exchange of gunfire, and Citrus Heights police officer Kyle Shoberg assisted in transporting the stricken deputy to a nearby hospital using a patrol vehicle. Upon arrival, the officer was taken into emergency surgery and survived.
Lt. Chad Morris also announced a number of new hires and promotions within the department. Seven retirements were recognized during the ceremony, and 19 officers and four dispatchers were recognized for having 15 years of service.
Officer Vedad Caus received a Proactive Policing Ribbon for his efforts in arresting seven dangerous criminals, and Daniel Hanson was also awarded the ribbon for his efforts in completing over 25 gang validation reports that aided the department in their investigations.
Officer Emily Lombardo was recognized for her efforts to assist the victims of an April 2020 drunk driving collision that left a six-year-old girl paralyzed. Lombardo worked with a number of community organizations and construction businesses to remodel the victim’s home to make it wheelchair accessible. Several organizations and businesses reportedly worked together for a total of 308 volunteer hours to complete the remodel work.
Sgt. Janet Schaefer was also recognized for her efforts to assist a resident with several home repairs. The resident was unable to afford the necessary plumbing and window repairs, and Schaefer coordinated efforts using funds that are available through various organizations to complete the repairs.
Police also announced six members of the force passed the required FAA exam to pilot unmanned aerial systems, for the department’s drone program. Volunteer Michael Rutledge was credited with helping the department expand the program.
