Mark Holden is Greenbelt’s Officer of the Year, Police Chief James Craze announced at the 28th Annual Public Safety Awards on November 13. Craze chose Holder based on his work ethic and productivity as a patrol officer and detective.
Honored by the American Legion Post 136, “the men and women in our local police force, fire department, emergency services and public works are inspirational with their dedication to the safety and welfare of our community,” said Post Commander Mike Moore.
Holden began his career as a beat officer, using photographs, biographical information and independent crime surveys to identify repeat offenders and to provide himself with knowledge of the crime in his area. He has mastered “community-oriented policing principles,” as he is known to patrol on foot and engage with youth and their parents.
When he was transferred to Investigations in a more crime-ridden part of Greenbelt in November of 2013, Holden put his ability to identify offenders to the test. He has successfully identified nearly all suspects in cases involving people. In the past year, Holden has received 43 cases, including robberies, sexual assault and one homicide. He has completed most of these at a performance rate higher than the national average, Craze explained.
Holden has demonstrated teamwork throughout his individual success, by working alongside patrol officers, the Franklin Park Community Policing Officer and local management bodies.
Corporal Jermaine Gulledge, Officer Jerry Potts and Officer Christina Foster were each awarded a Special Chief’s Award for their completion of the Police Unity Tour.
Sergeant Tim White, Officer Jason Kelley, Officer Jason Cressman and Officer Christina Foster were each awarded a Special Chief’s Award for their completion of the Ironteam Competition.
Brian T. Rudy presented Lawrence Edward “Eddie” Hughes with the Firefighter of the Year award for his service in the Greenbelt Volunteer Fire Department.
Acting Director of the Greenbelt Public Works Department, James Sterling, presented Karl Skaggs with the Employee of the Year award.
Lt. Russ Fennelly, District 4 Station Commander of the United States Park Police B/W Parkway Station, named Officer Matthew Manning the Police Officer of the Year.
Public Information Officer George Mathews said the Public Safety Awards “is a way to recognize individuals who go above and beyond to serve the residents for whom they work, and to recognize those who exemplify the qualities of what it takes to be police and fire professional.”
Kirstyn A. Flood is an undergraduate student at the University of Maryland, College Park.