Rauch named MPD ‘Officer of the Year’

The Maricopa Police Department has named Officer Daniel Rauch as the department’s “Officer of the Year” for 2015.

Over the last year, Rauch has been an active patrol officer, was selected to represent MPD by working in a detail with the U.S. Marshal’s Office and Tempe Police Department, and was the test subject for both the MPD on-body camera program and license plate reader program.

“I feel so honored to be recognized as the Officer of the Year,” Rauch said. “I will continue to strive for excellence in all that I do. I am so proud to work for the Maricopa Police Department and to protect and serve the citizens of Maricopa.”

Maricopa Police Chief Steve Stahl compared Rauch to the Energizer bunny. He is always open and available for new tasks, and whenever he is needed, he is there.

“One of the things that separated Daniel from the other officers was the fact that he is always willing to try new things, especially with technology,” Stahl said. “He always tests our new technology. He will push it to the limit, so if it’s ‘Daniel-proof’ it’s unbreakable.”

According to an MPD statement, Rauch exhibited a willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty as both an officer and a member of the Community Action Team.

Rauch was also commended for his stellar communication and treatment of members of the community.

“He has this uncanny ability to talk to people,” Stahl said. “Whether he’s giving a citation or bringing someone to jail, people walk away enjoying their time with him.”