Several officers recognized for work, dedication

Several Cape Girardeau County police officers were recognized recently for their excellence.

The county has been awarding the Timothy J. Ruopp Award since 1984. Named after a former officer of the sheriff's department who was killed in the line of duty while working in San Diego, the Ruopp Award was given to Cpl. James Malugen of the investigations division.

Malugen began working for the department in 2007 as its domestic violence investigator. He was promoted in January. Sheriff John Jordan said Malugen is known for his communication and interviewing skills.

Jordan also presented three Copeland Excellence Awards, named after former Sheriff Norman Copeland, that have been presented since 1995.

Sgt. Zach Dillard won the Copeland Award for field operations; security bailiff Jason Holloway won the Copeland Award for business operations; and Phillip Colyer won the Copeland Award for jail operations.

Three others, Lt. Chris Hall, Edie Davis and Jennifer Tidwell, were also recognized for having served 10 years in the department.

Congratulations, and thank you, to our fine officers for their outstanding work and dedication in public safety.