FWC officers honored with numerous awards for performance, courage

 

For immediate release: April 5, 2016
Media contact: Rob Klepper, 850-508-3825

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FWC officers honored with numerous awards for performance, courage

 

Four Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) officers were honored during the March 24 State Law Enforcement Chiefs Association meeting in Tallahassee. SLECA annually honors the best and brightest in Florida’s law enforcement community. Officer David Brady received the association’s Medal of Valor for his actions above and beyond the call of duty, Officer Dustin Lightsey was nominated for the SLECA Officer of the Year Award, Lt. Barry Shaw received the Outstanding Trainer Award and Investigator Steve Wayne received the Investigator of the Year Award. FWC officers took home three of the seven awards presented at the meeting.

During the March 29 meeting of the Florida Cabinet, Gov. Rick Scott recognized FWC Officer David Brady with the Medal of Heroism for his quick reaction in a hostile situation.

 “I am honored to recognize FWC Officer David Brady for his quick response and awareness during a dangerous exchange while on patrol,” Gov. Scott said. “I applaud the bravery and selflessness of these officers to protect families in their community,”

“FWC officers must respond quickly and be prepared for any dangerous situation or confrontation while on patrol,” FWC Chairman Brian Yablonski said. “We are proud of Officer Brady’s brave actions to ensure these individuals were apprehended and we thank Gov. Scott for honoring his courage.”

While on patrol, Officer David Brady (Northwest Region, Bay County) responded to a disturbance call involving two men on a sailboat. After asking for identification, the two men opened fire and boarded Officer Brady’s boat. Officer Brady jumped from his boat into the water and returned fire, striking one of the suspects in the hand. Officer Brady sustained gunshots in the collarbone and chest. Both suspects escaped on foot but were taken into custody within a few hours.

Officer Dustin Lightsey (Northeast Region, Brevard County) is the 2016 FWC Officer of the Year, and has consistently built relationships with stakeholders and partners alike. He has shown initiative in addressing boating under the influence in his region and developed training materials for other officers to ensure that FWC officers do their best at conserving resources and protecting people. Dustin’s impact on field operations can further be seen through his service as a Field Training Officer, water-safety survival instructor, and his constant informal leadership among his fellow officers. Officer Lightsey’s energetic attitude, attention to detail, and passion for the people he serves makes him a valuable asset to the FWC.

Investigator Steve Wayne (Northeast Region, Brevard County) was the first port investigator assigned to the FWC, and helped create today’s successful port investigations program. Wayne has led multiple, complex efforts to improve conservation of fish and wildlife resources across state lines. He has excelled at developing relationships with other federal, state and local organizations such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries and U.S. Customs and Border Protection, airport/seaport authorities, commercial airlines and shipping companies.

Lt. Barry Shaw (FWC Academy, outside of Tallahassee) has been instrumental in reevaluating the FWC-specific academy curriculum and has coordinated hands-on training related to the FWC mission. Shaw also has lent his expertise in development of conservation training materials for FWC and partners. He has continually set himself apart through his leadership and passion as a trainer. As a United States Marine and FWC Officer, Shaw’s dedication and passion to protecting people and natural resources are outstanding.

The FWC is proud of these officers, who serve as a testament to the strength, professionalism and dedication all FWC staff exhibit while working to protect the people of Florida and conserve our natural resources.

 

About SLECA:

 

The State Law Enforcement Chiefs’ Association is an association promoting better understanding among state law enforcement organizations, to secure unity of action in all law enforcement matters relating to its members and to serve the state purpose of enhancing law enforcement for the state of Florida. SLECA annually awards the best and brightest in Florida’s law enforcement community. Awards are presented to deserving candidates from all over the state of Florida.

 

About The Medal of Heroism:

 

The Medal of Heroism is given to any law enforcement or correctional officer, firefighter, emergency medical technician or paramedic who has distinguished himself or herself by risking his or her life deliberately above and beyond the call of duty and must have engaged in hazardous or perilous activities to preserve lives with the knowledge that such activities might result in great personal harm.

 

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