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Heroes of the Week: Local lawmakers recognized by Michigan MADD chapter

Posted at 9:57 PM, Oct 03, 2015
and last updated 2015-10-03 21:57:09-04

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – Four West Michigan law enforcement officers were honored by Michigan MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) for their above-and-beyond efforts in keeping the Michigan roadways safe.

9-year veteran Brian Matthews and 2-year veteran Eric Calhoun, both deputies with the Van Buren County Sheriff’s Department, received a Recognition of Excellence Award and Outstanding Officer Award, respectively.

Matthews is a highly trained expert in the field of drug recognition. Deputy Matthews is and advanced investigator of crash scenes, ARIDE (Advanced Roadside Impairment Detection Enforcement) instructor, SFST (Standard Field Sobriety Test) certified, Field Training Officer, Crime Scene Investigator and Honor Guard member. In the past year, Deputy Matthews has arrested 31 drivers for OWI/DUI.

Deputy Calhoun has, over the past year, arrested 37 OWI/DUI drivers, arrested or cited 195 suspended drivers, and made 310 misdemeanor arrests and 40 felony arrests. Deputy Calhoun is also a member of the Honor Guard. Deputy Calhoun is also SFST and ARIDE trained.

Trooper Tompkins MADD award

Also honored by Michigan MADD, Trooper James Tompkins of the Lakeview MSP Post. Trooper Tompkins received an award for Outstanding Trooper. He has led the post in arrests for the past four years, including 39 arrests for drunk driving.

Ionia Deputy Chase Coughlin MADD award

Ionia County Sheriff’s Department Deputy Chase Coughlin was also recognized by MADD for his commitment to keeping drunk drivers off the Michigan roadways.

Along with the other award-winners from across the state, the West Michigan honorees were presented with their awards during the Lifesavers Award Luncheon held at the Walter P. Chrysler Museum in Auburn Hills, Michigan back on September 23rd. Each winner was selected by a review committee organized by the Michigan MADD chapter.