This week Officer Tim Cronin was awarded the 2020 Kalispell Lion’s Club Officer of the Year. 2020 was a difficult year for everyone, and the police department was no exception. Covid-19 restrictions, lockdowns, quarantines, civil unrest, and staffing shortages all made 2020 a difficult year for the police department. Many during that time stayed home and are still working from home out of a concern for their safety. Despite the presence of a newly emerging, highly contagious virus posing an uncertain level of risk, all police department staff continued coming to work serving this community. During that time, many officers continually put in an extra effort to ensure we were able to keep staffing at safe levels. Officer Cronin, like many officers, worked numerous extra shifts when needed and alternated work hours to keep shifts filled. Officer Cronin is known for his proactive professionalism while continuing to maintain a strong desire to serve in other ways as well. In just one example, he was called out on social media for helping a motorist change a flat tire. In a year when many officers gave a lot extra, Officer Cronin stood out for both his exceptional work combined with a desire to help those in need. As a department, we are proud and thankful for the work and dedication shown by Officer Cronin and all the officers during a distinctly challenging year.
Thank you Kalispell Lions Club for recognizing and honoring our Officers with this special award.
Photo: Denyne Loughery with the Kalispell Lion's Club presents Officer Tim Cronin with a certificate acknowledging his award for 2020 Kalispell Lions Club Officer of the Year. Sergeant Chad Fetveit, Police Chief Doug Overman, and Captain of Patrol Brett Corbett also attended the ceremony honoring Officer Cronin.