The Turlock Police Department held its annual awards ceremony last week to recognize the exceptional contributions and achievements of its officers, staff and volunteers. 

The event highlighted the dedication and hard work of various members of the department who have gone above and beyond in their duties.

Neighborhood Resource Officer Ian Rodriguez was honored with the Award of Commendation for his outstanding work over the past four years. Turlock Police Chief Jason Hedden praised Officer Rodriguez for being instrumental in building positive relationships within the community, eliminating dangerous homeless encampments, and keeping the city cleaner through his “Friday Clean-up” efforts. 

“Your empathy, compassion and work ethic has been instrumental in dealing with the homeless issue that has plagued the state, and the City of Turlock over the years,” Hedden remarked. “Thank you for being an outstanding example of what it means to be a Turlock Police Department Officer.”

The department recognized the work of a few officers and detectives over the last year with the Distinguished Service Medal. The Distinguished Service Medal may be awarded to employees who, while serving in an official capacity, distinguish themselves by meeting the following criteria: The service contributed significantly towards the Department attaining its goals and objectives; the service significantly impacted the Department in a positive manner; and the service involved a great deal of responsibility and personal initiative.

Detective Nathan Urban received the Distinguished Service Medal for his contributions to reducing theft in the Monte Vista Crossings shopping area. His efforts have led to a significant decrease in theft-related calls for service.

“Trends have shown criminals are actually bypassing Turlock and hitting other cities in Stanislaus County,” Hedden said. “Patrol has also seen a significant reduction in their theft-related calls for service. Detective Urban, thank you for making a difference in this arena.  You have set the standard and created the model for fighting crime.”

Officer Manuel Ayala was also recognized with the Distinguished Service Medal for his exemplary handling of a complex situation as a newer officer.

“Being a newer officer, you are to be commended for how you handled the situation and identified how dire the incident was,” Hedden said. 

Ayala played an instrumental role in getting two women out of a home where a man had taken several of his family members hostage, back in February of 2024.

Detectives Gina Giovacchini and Frank Navarro were commended for their calm and effective resolution of that same hostage situation, earning them the Distinguished Service Medal.

“Gina and Frank, thank you for the time and effort you spent on resolving this horrific situation,” Hedden told the detectives. “You both remained calm and were the voice of hope for the two hostages during a terrible experience.  This medal represents a job well done.” '

The Critical Response Team of Sgt. Joey Rodriguez, Sgt. Dominic Hernandez, Sgt. Paul Inderbitzen, Ofc. Phil Kauffman, Ofc. Elias Arroyo, Ofc. John-Paul Beech, Ofc. Chuk Nwando, Sgt. Cliff Lewis, Ofc. Tristin Silva, Dispatcher Priscilla Castillo, former Ofc. Hiram Duncan, and former Dispatcher Mariah Alvarado were all honored with an Award of Commendation for their successful handling of the hostage situation.

“Thank you all for your hard work,” Hedden told the team. “All your training time invested was put to the test on this callout and you were successful.”

Ofc. Devin Rush, Detective Matthew Ulrich, Investigator Jacob Young, Ofc. Alex Jimenez, Ofc. Zachary Schell and Ofc. Gavin Allison were awarded the Meritorious Service Medal for their roles in rescuing hostages. Chief Hedden said their bravery and extraordinary efforts were instrumental in the operation's success.

The Armory Team, consisting of Lt. Michael Stapler, Sgt. Michael Parmley, Ofc. Gavin Allison, Ofc. Elias Arroyo, and Ofc.  Brett Conrad received the Excellence Award for their outstanding work in maintaining and issuing duty weapons. Their technical expertise is vital to the department's operations, Hedden said.

“Keeping our firearms functioning and operative is no small task.  This past year, they issued new duty weapons, outfitting every sworn member of the Department,” Hedden said. 

Sgt. Tony Argueta was named Officer of the Year for his commitment, leadership, and positive influence within the department. Sgt. Argueta was recognized for his fairness, enthusiasm, and approachability, making him a standout among his peers.

Police Records Technician Janya Younan was honored as Employee of the Year for her dedication and positive demeanor. Janya has been an invaluable asset to the Records Unit, known for her willingness to assist and collaborate with others, Hedden said.

Volunteer Glorybelle Lillie was recognized as Volunteer of the Year for her service and dedication. Starting as a Chaplain in 2017 and transitioning to a volunteer role in 2024, her kindness and assistance have been greatly appreciated by the department, Hedden said. Her positive attitude and willingness to help have made a significant impact.

Austin Tschantz was awarded the Explorer of the Year, selected by the Turlock Police Department Explorer Advisors. He received a $500.00 scholarship from retired Captain Jeff Lopes and retired Dispatch Supervisor Dara Lopes, who continue to support the scholarship program they began.

Volunteer Recognitions: Volunteers and Explorers were also recognized for their service:

• George Plisko – Presidential Silver Award Certificate – Volunteered 335 Hours for 2024 + 2500 Total Service Hours Epaulet.

• MaryAnn Jorge – Presidential Silver Award Certificate – Volunteered 294 Hours for 2024 + 3000 Total Service Hours Epaulet.

• Scott McCaskill – Presidential Gold Award Certificate – Volunteered 560 Hours for 2024 + 1000-hour Epaulet.

• Geoffrey Bradshaw – 1000 Total Service Hours Epaulet.

• Glorybelle Lillie – Presidential Bronze Award Certificate – Volunteered 192 Hours for 2024.

• Joe Rosas – Presidential Bronze Award Certificate – Volunteered 165 Hours for 2024.

• Hayden Elliott – Presidential Bronze Award Certificate – Volunteered 132 Hours for 2024.

• Kai Merfuentes – Presidential Bronze Award Certificate – Volunteered 110 Hours for 2024.

• Vivian Navarro – Presidential Bronze Award Certificate – Volunteered 149 Hours for 2024.