Spearfish officer wins prestigious Department of Justice award for drug investigation

Reece Walno among 13 honored nationally by Attorney General Merrick Garland

Spearfish police officer Reece Walno, left, won a prestigious national policing award Dec. 4 from the U.S. Department of Justice. Here, he is pictured after being named officer of the year by the South Dakota Police Chief’ and Sheriff’s Association earlier this year. (Facebook)

A Spearfish police officer is among 13 law enforcement officers nationwide to win a prestigious award for distinguished service, U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland announced Wednesday.

Officer Reece Walno was among the recipients of the seventh annual Attorney General’s Award for Distinguished Service in Community Policing. Earlier this year, the South Dakota Police Chief’ and Sheriff’s Association named him its officer of the year.

The national award is given to officers who “demonstrate exceptional dedication to strengthening trust, promoting community engagement, and enhancing public safety,” according to the Department of Justice.

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