The Brownwood Area Chamber of Commerce held their annual law enforcement appreciation luncheon on Friday at the Brownwood Country Club.    All branches of Brown County law enforcement agencies were recognized for their work in the area during the luncheon.

Several agencies and organization also presented awards during the event.

Heart of Texas Crime Stoppers recognized several officers and officials from multiple agencies for their support of the Crime Stoppers program.  The Barton Harris Law Enforcement Appreciation awards were given by Crime Stoppers in memory of Harris who founded the local organization back in 1984.

Presented with the award for 2012 was (pictured at top from left to right) Deputy Jim Cornelius, Brown County Sheriff’s Office; Sheriff Bobby Grubbs; Sgt. Lana Guthrie, Brown County Sheriff’s Office; Brownwood Police Chief Mike Corley; Officer Fred Bastardo, Brownwood Police Department; Sgt. James Kidd, Brownwood Police Department; and Officer Chandra Means, Brownwood Police Department.  Not pictured was Early Police Chief David Mercer who also received an award from Crime Stoppers.

The Texas Department of Public Safety also presented an appreciation award to Trooper Michael Sams.  Sams was recognized for his accomplishments in the past year which, in addition to traffic stops, included 21 alcohol related arrests, 75 criminal arrests, and 3 money seizures totaling more than $800,000.   Pictured above is DPS Cpl. Karl Keesee presenting Trooper Sams with the award.

Brown County Sheriff Bobby Grubbs also presented two awards during the appreciation luncheon.  Jail administrator Captain Becky Caffey and Stg Pete Bastardo, patrol division, each received certificates of appreciation.   Pictured above is Sheriff Grubbs presenting Captain Becky Caffey and Sgt Bastardo awards at the Chamber Luncheon.