Dismantling drug networks, saving a man who shot himself in the head and keeping young people out of the criminal justice system.
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These were just some of the reasons Orana Mid-Western Police District officers were recognised at an awards event in Dubbo this month.
Detective Senior Constable Brenton Rosier, Senior Constable Melanie Maher and Constable Matthew Lang were three of many officers awarded.
In honour of the initiative, tenacity and dedication he showed during a drug supply investigation, Detective Senior Constable Rosier received a certificate of commendation from the western region commander.
In April 2017, the detective and another officer started Strike Force Atony, which involved an investigation into middle and street level drug distribution in the Mudgee area.
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With very limited resources, the officers used physical and electronic surveillance, and executed several search warrants.
Because of this investigation, a large number of charges were laid and drugs and cash seized.
This effectively dismantled a drug supply network in Mudgee and beyond.
Like the detective, Senior Constable Melanie Maher was honoured for going above and beyond in her duties.
She received a certificate of merit from the western region commander, for being a pivotal part of the Orana Mid-Western Youth Crime Prevention Team.
Senior Constable Maher engages with young people while on and off duty, and has been a driving force behind a range of successful youth justice programs.
Senior Constable Maher's abilities and approach means she has an excellent reputation with other agencies and youth.
Through her caring nature and concern, showing empathy and acting as a role model, Senior Constable Maher has broken down barriers between troubled young people and police.
Constable Matthew Lang is another devoted officer who received a certificate of commendation from the western region commander, for the bravery he showed when undertaking life saving medical treatment on a community member.
In February 2019, the constable responded to an incident involving a vulnerable man threatening self-harm, who was in possession of a loaded gun.
When he arrived at the scene on his own, Constable Lang noticed the door of the man's vehicle was opened.
Without hesitation, he approached the vehicle and found a man with a gunshot wound to his head.
Constable Lang used first aid to save the man's life as the pair waited for further assistance to arrive.