Police Officers Receive Top Honors For Drug Recognition Work ICJI DRE Awards

The Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI) recently honored a select group of police officers for their efforts in reducing impaired driving and making Indiana roads safer. The officers recognized, 23 in total, are part of the state’s Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) program.

DREs receive specialized training to recognize impairment in drivers under the influence of drugs. Because of their training, they are often called upon by law enforcement to assist with traffic stops with the goal of keeping impaired drivers off the road.

The DREs were recognized during the Indiana Traffic Safety Conference, celebrating the officers after the eighth annual awards ceremony that took place in March. The awards ceremony was hosted by the Indiana Farmers Coliseum at the Indiana State Fairgrounds.

During the March event, the following awards were presented: (20) Longevity Awards, (2) DRE Performance Awards, the Officer David Moore DRE of the Year Award and the Lt. Gary Dudley DRE Instructor of the Year Award.

Officer Andrew Reiss of The Noblesville Police Department received the Longevity Award and has served his beloved community for 25 years! Officer Reiss has served the most years out of the rest of the recipients. 

“It is an honor to acknowledge the crucial role that these officers play in ensuring the safety of our roads and communities,” stated Devon McDonald, Executive Director of ICJI. “Their top priority is to prevent drug-impaired drivers from endangering lives on the road.”

“The officers involved in the DRE program do not seek recognition for their efforts,” explained Marshall Depew, Indiana DRE Program Coordinator. “Their goal is to equip themselves and their colleagues with the necessary skills to keep all road users safe from harm.”