Full Notification

The 9th Annual Lake Lure Police Department Evening of Honor was held Friday night, December 5th 2014 at Larkin’s on the Lake in Lake Lure. Larkin’s has been the host for this event for the entire 9 years and has raised funds each year for the department to use for necessary items.

This year Larkin’s raised by sponsors of this ceremony, $3000.00 and paired it with the Olympiad’s donation to make the total donation to Lake Lure Police Department $4000.00

The ceremony began with a dinner menu which included Prime Rib and Pecan Encrusted Trout. During dinner the attendees were able to view a video showing how the officers qualify with their weapons on a yearly basis. After desert and coffee the ceremony began with Chief Sean Humphries thanking Larkin’s and the sponsors for their devotion and dedication to the police department.

“It’s a very difficult time right now to be a police officer.” Humphries stated as he spoke about the feeling officers have now as they protect the public. “But there is hope.” he continued “Events like this and people like you who show their community support.”

Awards this year went to the following:

Citation of Bravery – Sergeant Andrew Greenway and Officer Ryan Bailey were both cited for their bravery during an incident at a local bar establishment wherein what began as a domestic disturbance ended with the suspect going for the fully loaded gun in his waistband, while his AR-15 sat on the bedside fully loaded with 27 rounds and one in the chamber. Both officers where able to subdue the suspect without further incident. He was arrested and taken to Rutherford County Detention Center. (This award was sponsored by Todd & Melinda Morse and Bob & Pam Keith)

Distinguished Service Award – Corporal Carl Umphlett received this year’s award by actively working the streets of Lake Lure, protecting them with traffic enforcement and arresting those he found driving while intoxicated. This officer served 180 citations and over 200 warning citations. In addition to Traffic Enforcement Corporal Umphlett worked diligently training and took over criminal cases, investigating and solving with convictions on the subject(s) involved. He has received numerous accolades from citizens and works with a dedication and motivation which rightfully earned him this prestigious award. (This award was sponsored by John and Paula Moore)

Community Service Award – Assistant to the Chief of Police, Office staff member Kat Canant was the first citizen in the events history to be cited with an award. Ms. Canant has worked for the department for four years. Lending a compassionate ear to victims and assisting those who need police service quickly and passionately. She serves the community behind the scenes by helping officers, often coming in to assist after hours. Her work extends outside of the department as she additionally serves the town in the capacity as a Volunteer Firefighter and volunteers hers time coordinating numerous events which benefit town organizations as well as collects water samples for the Town of Lake Lure during her weekends off. She has shown true love and devotion for the town and its citizens. (This award was sponsored by Russell and Lynn Carnes Pitts)

In addition to these awards, the Chief of Police recognized the wives of his officers as well as Town Manager Chris Braund, the entire Town Council and Town Mayor Bob Keith. He was gracious in thanking Larkin’s for continuing to support his team by holding this event. He additionally thanked all the citizens of the Town of Lake Lure for their support during the years. Chief Humphries thanked his police officers for the incredible jobs they do and the endless dedication they give.