TYLER, Texas — For three years, Officer April Molina has patrolled the neighborhoods of Tyler, serving her community and keeping residents safe.
"April's a great asset to our department," Tyler Police Department Lt. Paul Robeson said. "She is out there every day working with the public, helping people in need."
Tuesday night, at the police department's annual awards banquet, Molina was recognized as the Officer of the Year.
"I think this is just the beginning of her greatness," Lt. Robeson said. "I see her getting out there and becoming more of a person for the community."
"It's shocking, it's surprising," Officer Molina said. "I mean I'm humbled by my coworkers, I guess, believing that I'm worthy of that award."
This is not the first time the TPD recognized Molina's service to her community. She previously received a life saving award and an award while serving as a dispatcher.
Molina's ultimate goal is to become a detective and reach the rank of sergeant.
The full list of last night's winners are as follows:
- Officer of the Year – Officer April Molina
- Sworn supervisor of the Year – Lt. Paul Robeson
- Plainclothes Officer of the Year – Dt. Doyle Lynch
- Rookie of the Year – Officer Jackson Hug
- Unit of the Year – Evening Shift Patrol
- Civilian Supervisor of the Year – Erin Walker
- Civilian Employee of the Year – Joy Fry
- Volunteer of the Year – Sandy McClain