Attorney General Merrick B. Garland has announced the recipients of the Seventh Annual Attorney General’s Award for Distinguished Service in Community Policing. Among the honorees is Lance Corporal Justin Boyd from the Columbia Police Department.
The award acknowledges law enforcement officers who show outstanding commitment to building trust, promoting community engagement, and enhancing public safety. "Community policing is essential to building trust and ensuring public safety," said Attorney General Garland. "These officers have gone above and beyond their duty to foster partnerships with the communities they serve. Their work is an inspiration to us all and a reminder of the profound impact law enforcement can have on individuals, neighborhoods, and society."
Lance Corporal Boyd's work exemplifies effective community policing through his partnerships, outreach efforts, and successful investigations aimed at improving community safety. His efforts include engaging disenfranchised residents whose voices are now being heard. "Lance Corporal Boyd represents the best of South Carolina law enforcement. Our community is stronger and safer thanks to his dedicated service," stated U.S. Attorney Adair Ford Boroughs for the District of South Carolina.
Columbia Police Chief W.H. ‘Skip’ Holbrook also praised Boyd: “This prestigious award is proof that law enforcement officers care about the people who live, work, and play in the various communities in which they serve. And that is exactly the gift that Lance Corporal Boyd offers City of Columbia citizens.”
The award recognizes individual state, local, and Tribal sworn officers for exceptional efforts in community policing across three areas: criminal investigations, field operations, or innovations in community policing. The recipients were chosen from a nationwide pool of nominees for their achievements in fostering safer communities.
The Department of Justice commends these officers for their service and leadership. More information about the awards can be found at www.justice.gov.