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MADD California Salute Heroes At 2012 Law Enforcement & Community Recognition Dinner

Individuals, agencies and organizations from across the state were honored Saturday by MADD California for their work and dedication to Eliminate Drunk Driving. The 14th Anniversary of the MADD California Statewide Law Enforcement & Community Recognition Dinner – Celebrate California Heroes. The event was held on June 2, 2012, at the Hyatt Regency Sacramento. MADD recognized law enforcement officials, government agencies and community advocates from throughout the state, who have gone beyond the call of duty to combat drunk driving, educate the public on the effects of this violent crime and who have done their part in maintaining safer roadways and communities.

Over 600 people were in attendance from 53 of California's 58 counties to attend this prestigious gala. Awards are given to individual officers, departments, state park agencies, media, and community partners whose actions and policies are aligned with our mission to stop drunk driving, support the victims of this violent crime and prevent underage drinking.

Officer Eric Robinson from the Moreno Valley Police Department was awarded with the MADD California Hero Award for his contribution to help MADD achieve its mission to stop drunk driving, support the victims of this violent crime, and prevent underage drinking.

"The officers recognized at this event have made huge sacrifices in their lives to become the top in the field of traffic safety and enforcement. These are the top officers in the state for DUI Enforcement and many have additional duties within the department. Some of them have personal stories; perhaps victims themselves. They have seen first-hand the tragedies and devastation that drunk driving crashes have caused and they have set out to help protect the community from that devastation. For that, we honor them today." Said Silas Miers, MADD California Law Enforcement Program Specialist.

The California Statewide Law Enforcement & Community Recognition event is not just an awards ceremony; it is a powerful medium acknowledging the courage and strength of the members of our community who stand up every day to make us safer. Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

MADD is a non-profit organization with approximately 2 million members and supporters and 600 affiliates nationwide. MADD's mission is to stop drunk driving, support the victims of this violent crime and prevent underage drinking. To learn more, contact your local MADD affiliate or visit www.madd.org.

Please remember---DUI crashes are not "accidents."

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