Iowa City police employees have their efforts rewarded

IOWA CITY - Two Iowa City police officers and one civilian police employee have been recognized for their efforts in 2016.

During a ceremony on Monday, Officer Andrew McKnight was given the Richard 'Dick” Lee Award, which recognizes 'outstanding sustained efforts over the last year, which positively impacted the community through a program or activity,” according to the department. McKnight, a crisis intervention-trained office on the evening watch was recognized for 'providing consistent, high-level service to the residents of Iowa City,” as well as for helping other officers and showing commitment to the department.

Officer Dennis Kelly was named the Officer of the Year for his 'continued perseverance, dedication and his ability to perform his duties with professionalism, compassion and valuable insight.” Kelly was previously awarded a Commendation of Distinguished Service in 2012.

Jenn Dahm was named the Civilian Employee of the Year. As the department's administrative coordinator, Dahm was recognized for her expertise with payroll and accounting software, tracking grants and her understanding of federal and state employment laws, according to the department.

'She always offers assistance and volunteers to take on extra tasks when she can,” the department said in a news release. 'Her hard work and positive attitude are a positive force within the department.”