Story posted Thursday, October 22, 2009
Officer Honored For Work Against Drunk Driving
Buffalo Grove Police announced that Sgt. Scott Kristiansen received the Illinois Hero Award and the 2009 Brian McMillen Award from Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).
The awards were presented on Saturday, Oct. 10 in Springfield at a ceremony honoring Illinois police officers and others who have contributed to the fight against DUI's.
Kristiansen received the two awards in recognition of his "outstanding efforts" in combating drunk and drug impaired driving in the community.
In addition to the Hero award, Kristiansen was honored with the Brian McMillen Award. This is a new award presented by MADD Illinois to one person who is selected from among the other hero recipients.
It recognizes the person for integrity and service above self and excellence in the campaign to eliminate drunk driving. The award is named after Illinois State Trooper Brian McMillen who was killed by a drunk driver while responding to a call in 2007.
Shortly after being hired, Kristiansen developed an interest in traffic safety. This interest soon became the "passion" that has guided his more than 26-year law enforcement career.
When Kristiansen was placed in charge of the Traffic Division of the Buffalo Grove Police Dept., he began a comprehensive traffic safety program building on the successes of his predecessors. Central to his programs was an enhanced DUI education, training and enforcement effort. His expanded DUI education efforts reached out to all levels of the community.
According to police officials, Kristiansen has demonstrated "excellence" in implementing innovative programs in the detection and deterrence of impaired driving. His efforts include managing resources, direct enforcement efforts, educating the public, underage drinking prevention programs and proactively conducting regional DUI enforcement campaigns.
"We will never know just how many of us are alive today because of Scott's dedication," said Cmdr. James Newton.
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