Laguna Beach, CA – On Monday, April 18, 2024, approximately 130 esteemed guests attended the 2023 Laguna Beach Police Department’s Awards and Recognition Banquet. The attendees were comprised of police staff, City leadership, community members, and representatives from the Laguna Beach Police and Community Foundation who helped sponsor the event (https://www.lbpcf.org/).
The banquet was filled with many celebratory moments as nominees were honored for their outstanding contributions in 2023. Nineteen awards were given in ten different categories. Notable among these awards were the prestigious Lifesaving Award, Medal of Courage, and Unit Team Awards, which highlighted exceptional acts of bravery and teamwork within the department.
Corporal Antonio Manzano received the esteemed title of Officer of the Year, a testament to his exemplary service and dedication to upholding the values of the Laguna Beach Police Department. Additionally, Community Services Officer Rosie Santana, accompanied by her loyal canine companion Cooper, was lauded as the of the Professional Staff Member of the Year, Sergeant David Gensemer was honored with the title of Supervisor of the Year, reflecting his exceptional guidance and mentorship within the department.
The morning also held a poignant moment for Fallen Officer Gordon G. French as he was posthumously awarded the Police Cross, a symbol of his ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. In a touching gesture, his daughter, Linda O'Keefe, graciously accepted a plaque on behalf of the police department, ensuring that Officer French’s memory continues to be honored and cherished by all.
The Laguna Beach Police Department extends its heartfelt gratitude to all attendees and congratulates each awardee for their remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment to serving and protecting the community.
Special Recognition to the following nominees: Officer of the Year – Corporal Antonio Manzano Professional Staff Member of the Year – Community Services Officer Rosie Santana
Supervisor of the year – Sergeant David Gensemer Medal of Courage - Detective Ryan Radel, Officer Matthew Meyer, Sergeant William Downing Lifesaving Medal - Park Ranger James Kirk-Johnson, Officer Zach Oblea, and Officer Danny Lopez
Police Commendation Awards- Detective Alan Cintas, HLO Zach Oblea, Officer Thomas Heib, Corporal Alex Diaz, Sergeant Zach Fillers, Lieutenant Jason Farris, Dispatcher Kamille Carruthers, Dispatcher Cassie Dove, Corporal Thomas McGuire/K9 Rudy, Cpl. Priscilla Angeloni/ K9 Bear, Park Ranger Aureliano Becerra, Park Ranger James Kirk-Johnson, Park Ranger Daryl Byrd, Records Specialist Crystal Carter, Park Ranger Colin McNamara, and Officer David Huynh Unit Team Awards- Officer Daniel Lopez, Officer David Huynh, Officer Jeremiah Kennedy, Officer Matthew Meyer, Officer Pablo Ladislao, Lieutenant Jason Farris, Sergeant Mike Short, Detectives Tanner Flagstad, Joy Butterfield, Michael Lee, Elizabeth Gutierrez, Ryan Radel, Micheala Milone & Sergeant Randy Bitonti, Sergeant Fred Yeilding, Officer Ashley Krotine, and Cold Case Detective Daron Wyatt.
Distinguish Service Awards- Community Services Officer Nicole Rice, Officer Brian Griep, Officer Ashley Krotine and Sergeant William Downing. Crime Fighter Awards- Officer Thomas Heib and Detective Tanner Flagstad
Police Cross Medal- Fallen Officer Gordon French
