Mayor Daniel Rivera, with Lawrence Police Chief Roy Vasque, recognized officers of the month for September 2019 and October 2019 in a ceremony at City Hall today. Both officers were recognized for outstanding police work. “I am proud of the work that these officers have done for our Police Department,” said Mayor Daniel Rivera. “Officers Sanchez and Officer Potter’s actions set an example of the hard work our officers do on a daily basis to keep our community safe, and I am thankful to have their professionalism and expertise on our force.”
Officer Nelson Potter- Officer of the Month, September 2019
- Officer Potter was recognized as Officer of the Month for September for his exceptional professionalism and customer service manning the front desk at the Lawrence Police Headquarters. Officer Potter is the first face residents see when coming to the police headquarters and he has created a welcoming, professional and attentive atmosphere for residents during times of need and distress.
Officer Beatrice Sanchez- Officer of the Month, October 2019
-Officer Sanchez was recognized as Officer of the Month for October as a result of her quick thinking and de-escalation of a dangerous and volatile situation while on duty at Lawrence General Hospital. Officer Sanchez was attacked suddenly by a disturbed patient at the Lawrence General Hospital emergency room who verbalized she intended to steal her firearm. The suspect first tried to take the officers taser and subsequently did try to take Officer Sanchez’s firearm during the ensuing altercation. Officer Sanchez was able to maintain a cool head during this life threatening ordeal and not only able to fight off the suspect but gave orders to the staff to find cover so that they would be out of harm’s way. Officer Sanchez’s actions not only saved her life and the lives of LGH staff and patients but also saved the life of the suspect.
“Officer Sanchez and Officer Nelson set an example for the Lawrence Police Department, said Police Chief Roy Vasque. “They are officers who go above and beyond the call of duty on a daily basis and I am proud to have them on the force.”