Officer Spotlight

Faces of The Force: A confident and Effective Young Officer

“Looking at her stats, you might get the impression that these numbers represent the work of two or three officers,” said Lt. William Clarida, Uniform Patrol Commander. “She’s proving to be a leader on her squad and in the Department.”

Seizing illegal narcotics also gratifies Smith because she understands its bigger community impact.

“Getting drugs off the streets protects the streets,” she said.

Her work in 2020 included taking the initiative to arrest a domestic-violence suspect after reports that he was threatening the victim with a firearm. Police detectives located the weapon at the residence, despite the victim being too fearful to discuss the gun.

“My concern was for her safety,” Smith said.

She also helped sheriff’s deputies pursue and stop a suspect who fled in his car with a large amount of cash and narcotics.

Those and other actions have prompted multiple letters of commendation written by her supervisors.

“She’s an extremely dedicated and valuable officer,” Lt. Clarida said.

Smith knows how to relax, too. She enjoys reading, swimming, drawing, and painting in her off-hours. Cooking is another interest. Mexican cuisine—enchiladas covered in sauce especially—is a favorite, but Smith will try almost any recipe. Working out is another pastime.

Staying healthy during the pandemic was a focus when Smith like other officers wore masks and other personal protective gear on the job. Breathing techniques and a process she uses to calm herself after a high-stress situation were helpful in a year of unprecedented challenge.

“I have a way of making myself handle stress well,” Smith said.