By Conrad Dudderar
Associate Editor
EL RENO – Two members of the Canadian County Sheriff’s Office were honored this week for their outstanding public service and dedication.
Mustang’s American Legion on Aug. 21 presented its Officer of the Year award for law enforcement meritorious service to Canadian County Sheriff’s Sgt. David Cates.
Sheila Preno, secretary at the sheriff’s office, received a certificate of appreciation and commendation for outstanding public service benefitting the community.
The presentations were made by Paul Ray, awards chairman of American Legion Post 353 in Mustang and the Oklahoma Department of the American Legion.
“Every year, the American Legion strives to recognize exceptional performers in the law enforcement community,” Ray said during Monday’s weekly Canadian County Commissioners’ meeting. “This year, we had some truly exceptional performers. We get the opportunity to recognize and acknowledge the performance of the individuals.
“This is truly an honor and a privilege for us to be able to recognize these exceptional public service employees.”
Ray first called Cates to the front of the meeting room to present him with his award, commendation letter and American Legion Post 353 challenge coin.
“Usually, when I’m interacting with a police officer, they’re giving me some paper,” said Ray, prompting laughs from the audience. “This time, I want to give you some.”
Ray then called up Preno to accept her certificate, commendation letter and challenge coin.
“This lady has been incredible in our pursuit of law enforcement officer nominations,” he said. “She helps us out at every opportunity. I can’t say enough about her.”
Sgt. Cates and Preno also received coffee cups from American Legion Post 353.
“Thank you, Paul and the American Legion, for recognizing the work that our sheriff’s department does,” Canadian County Commission Chairman Dave Anderson said.
Cates has been with the Canadian County Sheriff’s Office for eight years. Preno has been there for 13 years.
COUNTY JAIL NUMBERS UP
Canadian County Undersheriff Kevin Ward on Aug. 21 presented the weekly county jail report showing an inmate population totaling 229, with 194 prisoners at the El Reno detention center and 35 others housed in contracted counties.
The total count is up 13 from last week as 53 prisoners await transfer to state Department of Corrections’ custody.
Resolutions to dispose of a Dodge Charger vehicle and two air compressors at the Canadian County Sheriff’s Office also were approved at the commissioners’ meeting.
