The Newnan Police Department recently enjoyed celebrating their 2023 achievements at an Awards Banquet at the Cellar in downtown Newnan. Twelve officers were awarded a Letter of Recognition for their actions, seven officers and one civilian received the Life Savings Award for heroic acts that led to saving a life. Nine officers received Certificate of Commendation awards. 10 officers were honored with a Certificate of Achievement due to earing a 90% or higher score on their annual physical readiness test.
Highlights of the evening included honoring Sgt. Donnie Evans and Principal Hap Hines (Central Education Center) with the Life Saving Award. Last year, as the CEC was performing a routine fire drill, Principal Hines was informed a student was missing. He discovered the unconscious student in the restroom and, when unable to locate a pulse, began CPR. Sgt. Evans arrived and they continued performing a two-man CPR, working as a cohesive team until the student regained a pulse and started breathing. The quick thinking of Sgt. Evans and Principal Hines saved the student’s life.
Sgt. Mike Condit received a Certificate of Commendation for his response to Coweta Cares in November. Sgt. Condit was confronted with a person suffering from mental instability, who was threatening suicide and was Sgt. Condit was able to deescalate the situation and help the person connect with the resources for proper treatment and care. Sgt. Condit’s training and experience resulted in a positive outcome in this difficult situation.
Chief Brent Blankenship shared, “As Police Chief of the City of Newnan, I could not be more proud of our officers and staff, along with the community members who have assisted us throughout 2023. I am deeply honored to work with the men and women who serve this community with pride each and every day.”
The Newnan Police Department would like to thank The Cellar for their support, hospitality and the delicious food which was enjoyed throughout the evening. Chief Blankenship concluded, “We are blessed to be in Newnan, with this community, and to do the job we love.”