Swearing-in Ceremony & Awards Recognition

Celebrating service, dedication, and lifesaving actions

Thursday, October 22, 2026

The Golden Valley Crime Prevention had the privilege of attending the
swearing-in ceremony for five of Golden Valley’s newest police officers.
Please join us in welcoming these officers to our community when you have
the chance:

• Officer Kristen Wills
• Officer Isma’il Toure
• Officer Scott Rethwill
• Officer Michael Williams
• Officer Aaron Tavares

We are excited to welcome each of them and wish them success as they begin
this important chapter of service to Golden Valley.

Recognizing Excellence and Service

During the ceremony, Chief Clark also presented nine awards to members of
the department and two awards to civilians whose actions helped save lives.
These recognitions highlight the compassion, professionalism, dedication, and
courage demonstrated by members of our department and community.

Department Award Highlights

Sergeant Joseph Magaña — Letter of Recognition
Sergeant Magaña received a Letter of Recognition for the compassion,
empathy, and professionalism he demonstrated while responding to a very
difficult death scene.

Investigator Keith Curtis — Certificate of Excellence
Investigator Keith Curtis received a Certificate of Excellence in recognition of
his outstanding work, thoroughness, and integrity in his role in the pursuit of
justice.

Life Saving Awards

A sergeant and three officers received Life Saving Awards for their exceptional
dedication to saving lives during their shifts. Their decisive actions,
professionalism, and unwavering commitment to protecting others were
especially important during intense and challenging situations.

• Sergeant Justin Kotajarvi
• Officer Cheka Vang
• Officer Abby Gerhardson
• Officer Brianna Vierling

Unit Citation — Wednesday Shift

Three officers received a Unit Citation in recognition of their outstanding
dedication, flexibility, and commitment to duty while helping address staffing
shortages on the Wednesday shift.

• Officer Colin Pennings
• Officer Cheka Vang
• Officer Abby Gerhardson

Civilian Lifesaving Awards