BPD officers honored with Congressional Law Enforcement awards

Several members of the Bradenton Police Department were honored Thursday night during Congressman Vern Buchanan's 16th District Congressional Law Enforcement Awards at the Manatee County Judicial Center. Each officer who received an award will be part of the Congressional Record.

Retired Assistant Chief Josh Cramer and Detective James Curulla received the Gary Tibbetts Career Service Award, which recognizes individuals that, over the course of their careers, have shown an outstanding dedication to law enforcement.

Lieutenant Phillip Waller and Sergeant Aaron Pilant received the Dedication and Professionalism Award, which honors law enforcement personnel that go beyond their normal duties in service to others.

Congressman Buchanan established the 16th District Congressional Law Enforcement Awards to give special recognition to law enforcement officers, departments, or units for exceptional achievement. Award winners are chosen by an independent panel comprised of current and retired law enforcement personnel representing a cross-section of the district's law enforcement community.