Schutz Selected as Burnsville Officer of the Year

Thursday afternoon, the Burnsville Police Department announced that Derek Schutz has been selected as the Burnsville Officer of the Year.

Schutz has worked for the BPD for five-and-a-half years. During that time, he served the force in many capacities — from a regular patrol officer, to "Use of Force" Instructor, Gang Officer, and Emergency Action Group-Tactical Team Member. Currently, he covers Street Crimes, a division that deals with some of Burnsville's most serious offenses. According to the department, Schutz is one of the most active officers with a high number of arrests to his credit. He has also demonstrated a special talent for intelligence gathering and investigative savvy — critical skills on the street crimes beat.

He is also known for his expertise and training in defensive tactics, firearms and officer survival skills, which have proved invaluable on the front lines of policing. He is credited with bringing many tense and volatile situations to a safe conclusion on more than one occasion.

His efforts have earned him the highest praise from his colleagues and superiors. He is described as "a solid employee since the day he was hired," whose "honesty and integrity (are) above reproach."

"Derek leads by example with his positive influence, high level of enthusiasm and professionalism for the job at hand," said Burnsville Police Chief Bob Hawkins. "He is highly respected among his peers and has set himself apart from others through his work ethic and leadership skills."