VPD Honors Officers, Personnel, and Citizens at Promotion & Awards Ceremony
On Wednesday, May 12, 2025, The Valdosta Police Department proudly recognized the exemplary service, bravery, and achievements of its officers and personnel during the recent Promotion & Awards Ceremony. The event celebrated promotions, years of service milestones, and heroic acts that reflect the department’s continued commitment to public safety and community service.Promotions
Officer Adam Brooks was officially promoted to Sergeant of Uniform Patrol, acknowledging his leadership and dedication to the department.
𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞𝐬𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬 𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨:
- Officer Jennifer Gosseck, who saved a man’s life by performing CPR until fire/medical personnel arrived.
- Officer Joshua Box and Officer Joshua Van Deraa, who applied a tourniquet in a life-threatening bleed, saving a life.
- Officer Christopher Holder, along with heroic citizens Jennifer Lee, Derrick Berrian, Alexis Wright, and Tammy Sayre, who were instrumental in saving someone who dove headfirst into a shallow pool resulting in him becoming unconscious and going underwater .
𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝐇𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐫 𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨:- Lieutenant Wagner, who was off duty and unarmed, shopping with his family, when shots were fired inside the mall. He immediately ran towards the gunshots and grabbed a possible suspect, demonstrating true courage and commitment to public safety.
Years of Service Recognition
The department also acknowledged the enduring dedication of several team members with service awards:
10 Years of Service: Tonya Kennedy and Sheila Williams
15 Years of Service: Shandora Gray, Lt. Vincent Altobello, Captain Colby Clark, Officer Martin Miller, Sergeant Jeffrey Stokes, Lt. Holly Vickers, Captain Charles Klingemann, Investigator William Shirley
25 Years of Service: Lt. Kyle Salter
40 Years of Service: Nancy Robinson, who serves in the Bureau of Support Services. Known for her positive spirit, Nancy greets each day with a smile that brightens the department. Chief Manahan remarked on her unwavering optimism and the meaningful impact she’s had throughout her four decades of service.
Chief Leslie Manahan commended all recipients for their professionalism and outstanding commitment to the citizens of Valdosta.
The Valdosta Police Department remains committed to excellence in law enforcement and public service, and is honored to recognize those who go above and beyond for the safety and wellbeing of the community.