Bennett recognized with FNCPA award

Sgt. James Bennett, of the Blood Tribe Police Service, was named as one of two recipients of the Police of the Year Award, handed out by the First Nations Chiefs of Police Association in Quebec on Oct. 21. Bennett has been a  member of the BTPS since 2009. His community work includes involvement in the Kainai Headdress Society, Kainai Pow Wow, Army Cadets, the Special Olympics Torch Run and he sits on the Pikanii Youth and Education Foundation Board.  Most recently Bennett spearheaded a program to provide food, clothing and hygienic products to the homeless population of the community. The drive was so successful, those in police custody received extra food, and donations were presented to the local food bank and a new stove was purchased for the Moses Lake Homeless Shelter. Bennett has been honoured with presentation of a Headdress and a Blackfoot name. He is the official teepee keeper of the police service. In his official capacity, Bennett is in charge of a Community Policing Shift and manages the conducted energy weapon program. “Sgt. Bennett is a team leader and strong example for all BTPS members to look up to. He continues to diligently serve the community as well,” said Police Chief Lee Boyd. The award is given to an officer who has shown his dedication to the department and has exemplified to be a team player as witnessed by his strong ability and willingness to assist others.