The Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI) recently honored a select group of police officers for their efforts in reducing impaired driving and making Indiana roads safer.

During the March event, the following awards were presented: (20) Longevity Awards, (2) DRE Performance Awards, the Officer David Moore DRE of the Year Award and the Lt. Gary Dudley DRE Instructor of the Year Award.

The officers recognized, 23 in total, are part of the state’s Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) program.  Jeff Dewitt with the Shelby County Sheriff's Department received a Longevity Award at the event.

DREs receive specialized training to recognize impairment in drivers under the influence of drugs. Because of their training, they are often called upon by law enforcement to assist with traffic stops with the goal of keeping impaired drivers off the road.

The DREs were recognized during the Indiana Traffic Safety Conference, celebrating the officers after the eighth annual awards ceremony that took place in March. The awards ceremony was hosted by the Indiana Farmers Coliseum at the Indiana State Fairgrounds.

"It is an honor to acknowledge the crucial role that these officers play in ensuring the safety of our roads and communities," stated Devon McDonald, Executive Director of ICJI. "Their top priority is to prevent drug-impaired drivers from endangering lives on the road.”