Sheriff's deputies receive awards

Two St. Mary Parish deputies who came to the aid of local people were among those honored with awards at the Sheriff’s Office Award Banquet on Feb. 8 at the Old Building in Berwick.

Cpl. Blake Giroir received the Lifesaving Award for taking actions “instrumental in saving the life of a 4-year-old child who was in the water,” the Sheriff’s Office said.

In addressing those gathered, Giroir said he recently saw the child playing in the yard, which “made the job worth it.”

The Valor Award went to Lt. Monique Francis, a 26-year veteran of the SMPSO who serves hand in hand with Drug Court.

During the review of a recent shots-fired incident, the bodycam of Francis showed that after a shot was fired, she responded without hesitation, the Sheriff’s Office said.

“She headed directly toward the shot while civilians ran away from the sound,” the Sheriff’s Office said.

After discovering the injured victim, Lt. Francis began efforts to aid the victim.

“Her actions were found to be valorous in the face of what she thought at the time was an active shooter situation,” the Sheriff’s Office said. “Lt. Francis’ actions showed her training and courage in facing danger.”

Awards from each section were given, and an overall Deputy of the Year was chosen.

Other award-winners:
—Patrol Section Award: Cpl. Blake Giroir, K9 deputy.
—Civil Division Award, Monique Smith.
—Special Services Award: Lt. 1st Class Bart Lange.
—Corrections Award, Lt. Brian Benoit.
—Deputy of the Year: Lt. 1st Class Bart Lange.