OPD Officer of the Year Credits Shift With His Successes

By Alyssa Schnugg
News Editor
alyssa.schnugg@hottytoddy.com

Patrol Sgt. Kevin Parker, left, was named Oxford Police Officer of the Year Saturday. Officer Joe Bishop presented him with the plaque.

Patrol Sgt. Kevin Parker was named Officer of the Year by the Oxford Police Department recently for his outstanding service and dedication to law enforcement.

However, the Oxford native said it’s the fellow police officers on his shift that helped earn him the award.

“If it wasn’t for their strong work ethics, positive attitudes and willingness to work together to help wherever it’s needed, then I wouldn’t be in the position I am,” Parker said Wednesday. “Their good, quality work helps me be free and available to help where I am needed.”

Parker was presented with the award Saturday during the OPD’s annual award banquet.

Going on his eighth year with OPD, Parker is currently patrol sergeant which means he spends most of his workday making sure his shift runs smoothly.

“I could be helping patrol a beat, answering calls, approving reports or just being a back-up officer for the patrol officers on calls and traffic stops,” he said.

Interim Chief Jeff McCutchen said Parker is one of the most respected officers in the department.

“He is hardworking, dedicated and has a passion for every member of our staff,” McCutchen said. “He grew up here. He knows almost everyone and treats everyone he comes in contact with as though he knows them.”

McCutchen said the department receives calls routinely about Parker’s professionalism and how he conducts himself while on the job.

“Not only is Kevin a great officer but he is also a great husband and father,” McCutchen said. “We are very blessed to have him at OPD.”

Parker said he plans on staying with OPD to learn and grow as a police officer.

“I’m still learning how to be an effective patrol sergeant while still being a positive influence to the officers around me,” he said. “When the time is right, I will put in for promotions but I am really enjoying what I’m doing so far.”

Other awards were handed out Saturday during the banquet, including Supervisor of the Year, given to Bridgette Frierson, communications supervisor.

Bridgette Frierson was named the OPD Supervisor of the Year. Photo provided.

Frierson has been with OPD for 12 years. She does payroll and scheduling for all the dispatchers. She is the administrator of the computer system ARMS, setting up new hires, making codes and updating the program daily. She’s also involved in the department’s outreach programs, like the Haunted House and Camp COPS.

“I am always here for each staff member and officer, no matter what they may need — from resetting passwords or listening to them vent,” she said. “We are always trying to improve our department and help the community by being a part of it.”

Other awards presented Saturday:
Admin Major Award – David Misenhelter
Operations Major Award – Rachel Ratcliffe
SWAT Officer of the Year – Joshua Shipp
Community Service Award – Jeffrey Dukes
Mounted Officer Award – Matt Kinne
Newcomer of the Year – Mike McGhee
Reserve of the Year – Shawn Doyle