Schlener was named officer of the year and Abbott civilian employee of the year.
Zuniga, an animal control officer who was mauled by a pair of dogs while protecting a family from their attack, was awarded a Medal of Honor.
The BHCPD also honored citizens who have helped solve crimes or tend to those in distress.
Other awards went to officers based on years of service and safe driving, along with commendations for work on major cases.
Abbott and Schlener were nominated by colleagues.
“In every organization,” Deputy Chief Brian Williamson said of Abbott, “there’s one person who does the behind-the-scenes work that rarely gets noticed but is crucial.”
Her tasks include interacting with citizens, city staff and other police department members and organizing annual events such as the officers’ memorial ceremony and the awards ceremony.
Abbott said she was really surprised by her nomination.
“It makes me feel really good that they think enough of me to nominate me,” she said.
Williamson said Schlener’s personnel file contains many notes of praise from citizens, colleagues and local businesses. The army veteran also serves as a patrol training officer.
“His positive attitude and ability to motivate new officers are an asset to our department and community,” Williamson said.
“I’m honored to receive this award,” Schlener said. “But I also feel that every other officer working out there should get this award. I just do my job and try to do it to the best of my ability.”
Zuniga said that her thoughts during the December incident that left her with severe lacerations and puncture wounds were that she had to protect the family.
Williamson said Zuniga used all of her tools and training to keep the dogs away from the couple and their child, and offered the dogs her hand so they would get off her legs, allowing her to pull herself up.
“You are a remarkable person,” he told Zuniga.
The family came out of the incident unharmed, Zuniga said, which made her own suffering worth it.
(Mohave Valley Daily News - Oct 25, 2012)
