Jan. 1, 2008 — One Susanville police officer, who recognized domestic violence as a serious crime and worked hard to help victims, won the distinction of being named Lassen Family Services’ Officer of the Year. Richard Warner received the award from LFS Executive Director Darla Freeman at the nonprofit agency’s annual open house. Freeman said Warner really earned the award through his efforts on victims’ behalf.

Freeman presented five other awards at the event. They were:
•LFS Crisis Line Volunteer of the Year – Boyd Taylor
•LFS CASA Volunteer of the Year – Sharon McBride
•LFS Shelter Worker of the Year – Wendy Owen
•LFS Employee of the Year – Lorrie Dutra
•LFS Employee of the Year – John Brooner

Freeman said she honored Taylor for 10 years of volunteer service, during which he gave freely of his time and touched many lives. She added Taylor served not only the victims of crime, but also the community at large.

Two people won employees of the year awards because it was impossible to choose between Brooner and Dutra. Both deserved the recognition as hardworking, dedicated employees, Freeman said.

LFS Court Appointed Special Advocates serve children removed from their homes by child protective services because of sus¬pected abuse or neglect. Freeman said McBride was named CASA volunteer of the year for making a difference in the life of a child.

The executive director also recognized High Desert State Prison’s inmate craft fair for raising $19,000 and thanked HDSP for its annual food drive.

She also thanked the Weasels and Iron Warrior motorcycle clubs for the toy drives for abused and neglected children.