The Yakima Police Department held its annual Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, February 21st, at the Yakima Convention Center. Curt Oja, who is a detective in the Special Assault Unit was named Officer of the Year. Officer Frank Bowersox was also nominated for Officer of the Year. Sergeant Rich Fowler, Officers Ben Graves, Darius Williams, Joe Scherschligt, Matt Drumheller, Corrections Officer Mark Dole and Corrections Sergeant Dwight Charlton were given Life Saving Awards. Corrections Sergeant Maritza Davis received non-commissioned Employee of the Year, while Moraima Verstrate was nominated for the same award. Corrections Officers Jason Masters was given a Certificate of Merit Award . Recently retired Officer Tim Cruz was honored for his 35 years of service to YPD and the Yakima Police SWAT and Hostage Negotiating team was honored for its work this year.
