The Valdosta Police Department honored thirteen personnel during a Retirement and Service Awards Ceremony on July 31. City officials, government employees and citizens gathered to honor the dedicated service of the outstanding men and women who make up the city’s police force.

“When you have someone that has given many years of their life to this department that is outstanding. They need to be recognized for a job well done,” said Police Chief Leslie Manahan. “The individuals have shown us their commitment to law enforcement. We are so proud of them.”

The full list of awards and retirements celebrated at the ceremony are as follows:

10 Year Service Award

Sergeant Bucky Griffin

Detective Terry Hines

Detective Heather Turner

Officer Travis Hodges

 Leah Lynch

Sharon Brinson

15 Year Service Award

Lieutenant Scottie Johns

Sergeant Brad Ingram

Detective Vincent Scruggs

Officer Alvin May

20 Year Service Award

Detective June Bidwell

25 Year Service Award

Officer Richard Burkhart

 Lieutenant Tim Pickett was celebrated for his 27 years of dedicated service and retirement from the Valdosta Police Department. Lieutenant Pickett started with VPD in 1992, after serving on active duty in the United States Air Force. He has also served as a Reservist fro several years. Throughout his career, he has served in several capacities: Uniform Patrol Officer, Sergeant in the Patrol Division, promoted in 2013 to Lieutenant in Support Services, where he has served to date, GCIC Terminal Agency Coordinator and he has also been a key member of the department’s Honor Guard.

“We are proud of Lieutenant Pickett and excited for him to start the next phase of his life,” said Chief Manahan.

The city congratulates these incredible police personnel for their long-standing efforts to protect and serve Valdosta citizens, day in and day out.