Law Enforcement Officers From Across Oklahoma Honored At Buckle Down Awards

Law Enforcement officers from across the state were honored today at the 30th annual Buckle Down Awards.

From stopping impaired driving to writing traffic tickets, the awards highlight the hard work law enforcement does across the state.

"I'm really honored, really honored, that's probably the most feeling I feel right now, even to be nominated, and given that award," said Kellyville Police Chief Shelly Garrett.

Chief Garrett was honored with the Nicholas Dees Memorial Award. Every year she runs a program with Kellyville students to help put a stop to drunk driving. They set up a crash and show kids how they respond, and then let them see how the court process works, and hear from impacted victims.

She says this shows kids what happens when they make the decision to drink and drive.

"So that kids can see from beginning to end, they make that bad choice, and we try and do it before prom and graduation so hopefully it prevents them from making that bad decision," she said.

Trooper Colton Croft was honored with the Matthew Scott Evans Memorial Award. He says he was shocked when he found out he was getting the award.

"It's a blessing, such an honor to get this award, and I'm really excited and it was a surprise," he said.

Croft says the turnout at the awards was incredible, and it's amazing to see so much support.

"It's a difficult time in law enforcement across the nation really and in the state of Oklahoma we're respected I like to think and it's awesome to see the support we have around here," he said.

More than 200 officers were honored with traffic awards.