PLEA Honors Your Officers
DEP Officer of the Year-Scott Peters
Everyone,
Please join in congratulating Officer Scott Peters
as the Division's 2007 Officer of the Year. Scott has consistently demonstrated, modeled and
reinforced the agency's fundamental values of
fairness, cooperation,respect, commitment, excellence, honesty, and
teamwork. Patrolling one of the busiest State Parks in Florida, the John
Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo, he developed an
incredible rapport with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies as
well as with other agency programs.
His demonstration of keen investigative skills was a key factor in recovering over $100,000 in fines from individuals who caused serious damages to the natural resources of the Florida Keys. Scott was also instrumental in implementing security procedures and training for park staff, resulting in the curtailment of smugglers using the park's boat ramps as a jump-off point. Coordinating and organizing annual cleanups of the park's channels, waters, and coral reef patches are other examples of his dedication to the agency and its mission.
Other notable accomplishments Scott achieved this past year include:
- During a recent rash of auto burglaries at the park, he followed up on one lead and obtained video of the suspects, leading to the arrest of three subjects.
- He has responded and assisted the U.S. Coast Guard when Cuban refugees have made it to land and has provided emergency first aid on several occasions.
- He provided exemplary service as a Division Field Training Officer during an August rifle training session.
- The Park Manager and DEP Regulatory personnel have recognized his exceptional level of coordination in protecting the sensitive natural resources of the Keys.
Scott's actions and proactive approach to willingly
accept additional and more challenging duties have set him apart as an
exceptional asset to the Department of Environmental Protection, the
law enforcement community, and the residents of the State of
Florida.
Thank you,
Henry E. Barnet
Director
DEP Division of Law Enforcement
