Officer of the Quarter

Police Assistant Michelle “Shelly” Scott was selected as the Fort McDowell Police Department’s Employee of the Quarter for January-March 2011.  Shelly was selected for this award by her peers in the police department because of her tremendous impact on the stray/abandoned dog population as well as her resourcefulness in vehicle maintenance and equipment repairs.  It is becoming common knowledge in the community that Shelly can get things done with stray dogs, problematic dogs and sick or injured dogs.  She has taken the time to become familiar with the Animal Control Ordinance and takes time to discuss and educate the community on the need to support this ordinance.  Shelly has an above average knowledge in vehicle repairs and maintenance and this assists the department in a close relationship with public works.  This also benefits our department in the ability to keep an eye on expenditures from our budget.

Shelly has a great attitude and willingness to get things done.  Please congratulate her if you see her out in the community.

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Officer of the Year

On April 12, 2011 the Fountain Hills Rotary Club announced that Officer Gilbert Padilla was selected as their  Fort McDowell Police Department’s Officer of the Year.  Each year the group honors a police officer and fire fighter from Fountain Hills, Fort McDowell and Rio Verde.

 Officer Padilla has been with the Department since it was formed in 1997.  He has a wealth of experience and can be relied upon to complete any task assigned to him.  In 2008 he sustained a severe foot injury while off duty, which required a substantial amount of time in recovery.  But when he came back to work here on full duty, he resumed his enthusiastic work and support of our Department.

 Officer Padilla volunteered to work our recent holiday traffic safety mobilization “Don’t Shatter the Dream” and was a leader in traffic stops and related activities.  Not only is he focused on highway/traffic safety but he shows a special concern and care for our elders and makes frequent house visits to ensure their safety and care.

  Officer Padilla’s last evaluation was prepared by Sgt. Misino who stated that Officer Padilla “has consistently led not only the squad but the Department in a number of areas.”  His evaluation also noted that he “is a positive influence and leader among his peers.”  Recently in December 2010 he was formally commended for his actions taken during a dispute at the Casino.  He also was commended for his work efforts regarding our Department’s participation on Frite Nite during Halloween.

Please be sure to congratulate Gilbert on this honor.