Spring Branch ISD Police Officer of the Year

Three Spring Branch ISD police officers recently earned recognition for outstanding performance, exceptional calmness during a police pursuit, and distinguished service.

During an Annual Officers Meeting held on Aug. 16, Rigo Hernandez was named SBISD Police Officer of the Year. Police Sgt. Jerry Hanson was awarded a special SBISD Police Commendation for his actions under fire during a call for assistance from another agency, and Senior Police Officer Bob King received a departmental Distinguished Service Award.

“Spring Branch ISD takes great pride in maintaining a highly trained and motivated Police Department. As professionals, they do not seek award recognitions or special accolades. Their daily goals are for the safety and security of all students and staff – before, during and after regular school hours – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week,” said SBISD Police Chief Bruce Dareing.

Chief Dareing presented awards at the meeting. During the August police meeting,many police officers were honored and recognized for career and past year special recognitions. Special Awards issued:

SBISD Police Officer of the Year

Police Officer Rigo Hernandez was selected as 2016-17 Officer of the Year by his SBISD Police Dept. colleagues.

“Officer Hernandez is recognized throughout the department as a team player who is committed to the department’s mission, and to both the safety and welfare of the people that he serves. Officer Hernandez’s exceptional devotion to duty and outstanding performance reflected credit upon himself, the Spring Branch ISD Police Dept., and Spring Branch ISD,” his award states.

SBISD Police Commendation

Police Sgt. Jerry Hanson was awarded the SBISD Police Commendation for his work as night shift supervisor on May 17, 2017. On that evening, a Houston Police Dept. call for assistance involving a vehicle pursuit turned into a suspects’ foot chase on the Hollibrook Elementary School property.
At one point, the suspect fired shots at HPD officers and at Sgt. Hanson.

Said his commendation: “Despite this immediate threat, Sgt. Hanson displayed outstanding situational awareness and calmness in the face of direct fire. Recognizing that there was not a clear target, he refrained from returning fire that could have potentially endangered an untold number of innocent citizens. During a potentially deadly incident, Sgt. Hanson’s performance reflected credit upon himself, the Spring Branch ISD Police Dept., and the Spring Branch ISD.”  

SBISD Police Distinguished Service Award

Senior Officer Bob King was awarded this honor.

His award states: “During the past seven years with Spring Branch ISD Police Dept., Officer King has performed at a high level of excellence, exceeding all expectations, while performing difficult and demanding criminal investigations. Officer King’s performance continually exemplifies professionalism and the highest standards of this department. A true asset, his mentorship and guidance as a field training officer has helped develop officers under his care, regardless of experience level. Officer King’s attention to detail, knowledge and dedication to duty reflects credit upon himself, the Spring Branch ISD Police Dept., and the Spring Branch ISD.”

In other news, several SBISD Police officers earned Senior Officer status:

Officer Jesus Diaz
Officer Daniel Hadley
Officer Dwayne Hernandez
Officer Robert King
Officer Brian McCall
Officer Uhura Sumbry

The following SBISD Police Officers were promoted to Sergeant’s rank:
Sgt. Jerry Hanson
Sgt. Raymond Gonzales

Officer Brian McCall was recognized for career service and his retirement.

In addition, SBISD Police officers were recognized for career achievements in police education, certifications and civilian education.

Total awards given by category included:

• Master Peace Officer Certification – 17
• Advanced Peace Officer Certification – 10
• Intermediate Peace Officer Certification – 3
• Military Service – 6
• SWAT Certification – 6
• Field Training Officer – 19
• Mental Health Officer – 5
• EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) – 2
• Crime Prevention Officer – 7
• Police Instructor – 7
• Firearms Instructor – 3
• Canine Officer – 5
• 30-Plus Hours of College Credit – 10
• Bachelor’s Degrees – 8
• Master’s Degree – 1