Cst. Eric Enkirch and reserve Cst. Brent Tipple were recognized with Deputy Chief Constable’s Commendations at an awards ceremony at the Hume Hotel earlier this month. The pair were recognized for their integrity, dedication and exceptional policing skills.
The first award, given out by deputy chief Paul Burkart, went to Cst. Eric Enkirch, who works in traffic enforcement.
“Traffic enforcement has proven to save lives,” said Burkart. He noted that Enkirch has already received a citizen recognition award for his work with Alexa’s Team, an initiative to stop drunk driving. Burkart acknowledged Enkirch’s continued work in that field and praised him for his participation in an undercover drug sting.
“During the Nelson Police Department’s latest drug operation in 2013 an undercover operation was undertaken that led to the arrests of 15 individuals charged with 25 offences. In this operation undercover operators were able to purchase and seize cannabis, cocaine, ketamine, morphine, ecstasy and methamphethamines. In additions to the seizure of cash and drugs, three motor vehicles were seized in a civil forfeiture,” said Burkart.
“Lead Investigator Sgt. Corey Hoy credited the work of Const. Enkirch in identifying many of the targets of this operation and providing vital and timely information that was key to the operation’s success. In addition, the information Const. Enkirch has obtained has led to many other arrests.”
Burkart said Enkirch has an uncanny ability to develop human sources.
“During your tenure with the Nelson Police Department, you have been proactively and tenaciously combatting and investigating criminal activity within our policing jurisdiction. Of particular note was your ability to procure and develop and manage human sources. Your efforts resulted in the successful conclusion of numerous investigations and many court convictions. You adeptness at infiltrating the inner working of criminal networks and your dedication to duty is an inspiration to us all,” he said.
The second award went to “the one and only Brent Tipple”, who Burkart described as vital to the everyday operations of the department. He noted Tipple is always available on the radio, both in his car and at home.
“And as I was driving up the highway to test the quality and range of our new radio system, who do you think was the first one to answer? Brent,” he said.
Tipple has served as a recovery diver with the Ottawa Police, he was the fire chief of Ymir, a member of the Nelson Search and Rescue, a volunteer ski patrolman at Whitewater and a navigator with Civil Air Search and Rescue. He also served for 25 years as an auxiliary member of the Nelson RCMP.
“As someone who eats, breathes and dreams service to his community, his position with the Nelson police department would not be enough,” said Burkart, who noted that Tipple is on the verge of turning 70.
“As of March 2015 you will have completed 30 years of impeccable service…over the period of these many years you’ve distinguished yourself on numerous occasions by demonstrating exceptional skill, judgement and integrity.”
This is the second part of the Star’s coverage of the Nelson Police Department Commendations Ceremony. Part three, which will cover the Nelson Police Board Commendation, will be published in a subsequent issue.
