The Prescott Valley Council is honoring Police Lt. Wayne Nelson for his nearly 25 years of service to the community.
Lt. Nelson was sworn in as a Prescott Valley Police officer on Oct. 10, 1989. During his career, he was a patrol officer, police academy advisor, field training officer, patrol sergeant, traffic sergeant, criminal investigations sergeant, support services division lieutenant and field services division lieutenant.
Prescott Valley Police Cmdr. James Edelstein spoke about Nelson’s career.
“Lt. Nelson truly cared about the community he served. He earned numerous awards, accolades, and commendations, including Officer of the Year and a Police Star. He received letters of appreciation from many local organizations.”
Edelstein said Nelson’s file also contained numerous letters from parents, doctors, crime victims, and stranded motorists, thanking him for his caring assistance in their times of need.
“These letters told of a man who made a decision to raise his hand, and swear an oath to protect this community. He did so selflessly and well,” Edelstein said.
He said memos in Nelson’s file also spoke about his abilities as a supervisor.
“A constant theme in those memos was the recognition Wayne provided to his personnel, and his constant effort to represent them, the needs of the community and the needs of the agency,” he said. “Not only is he to be commended for his career, but for being a great family man throughout, which is no small feat.”
Lt. Nelson’s wife Christy, and sons Andy and Jason, along with co-workers and friends, joined him at the council meeting. The Town presented Nelson with a plaque, a gift, and a shadowbox commemorating his years of law enforcement.
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