Press Releases

Atlanta Police Department Public Affairs 226 Peachtree Street SW • Atlanta, Georgia 30303

Elizabeth Espy, APD Public Affairs Director             404-546-6873,office             enespy@atlantaga.gov

 

 News Release

 

Women in Blue Lights: Atlanta Police Celebrate Women in Law Enforcement

 The Honorable Glenda Hatchett receives the Lifetime Achievement Award

 

ATLANTA – The Atlanta Police Department celebrated the dynamic accomplishments of women who serve in law enforcement during the 3rd Annual Women’s History Month Luncheon, held Wednesday, March 16, 2016. The theme for this year’s event was, Women in Blue Lights- Honoring Women Behind the Badge. WSB-TV reporter Tyisha Fernandes served as the mistress of ceremonies.

The Honorable Glenda Hatchett was the keynote speaker and the recipient of the Chief George Turner Lifetime Achievement Award. Hatchett was the first African American Chief Presiding Judge of Atlanta's Fulton County Juvenile Court. She is also recognized for her award-winning show, Judge Hatchett.

During the luncheon, Hatchett inspired the women of APD to share their knowledge with future generations and to support other women. As she motivated the women she gave them a dare. “I dare you to look into your soul and find your purpose and passion,” said Hatchett. “We must be willing to make a commitment that will live beyond our lifetime.”

“Women are an integral part of the Atlanta Police Department and we want to take time to recognize and thank them for the hard work they do,” said Deputy Chief C.J. Davis, Commander of Strategies and Special Projects. “I smile when I look out in the audience and see women supporting each other—it’s girl power.”

The event recognized retired women who have made their mark on the Atlanta Police Department as well as sworn and civilian employees who currently serve.

Award Recipients

• Pioneer Award Recipients: Sgt. J.Y. Sturdivant, Retired Major Henrietta Smith, Retired Sgt. Phyllis Hayes, Retired Civilian Amanda Burns, and Retired Crime Prevention Inspector Gladys Mayes

• Female Rookie of the Year, Officer Amanda Wortham

• Civilian Female Employee of the Year, Inspector Selena Swoope

• Sworn Supervisor, Sgt. Cheree Herbert and Sgt. Justina Collins

• Civilian Female Supervisor of the Year, Ms. Darlene Jackson

• Civilian Female Administrator of the Year, Ms. Charlene Minor

• Answering the Call, 911 Dispatcher Ms. Sonja Thompson

• Women in Blue Lights, Off. Ashley Gibson and Inv. Summer Benton

• Crime Fighter Award, Investigator Darline Scott and Investigator Lakea Gaither

• Sister-in-Law Award, Investigator Katie Riester & Officer Karmen Williams

• Legal Eagle Award, City Attorney Cathy Hampton

 

 

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