A group of students from Mountain Shadows Elementary School in West Jordan on Tuesday congratulated Police Chief Ken Wallentine for being named D.A.R.E. America’s Law Enforcement Executive of the Year.

The award recognizes Wallentine’s work in bringing the D.A.R.E. program back to elementary schools in West Jordan and supporting officers engaging with students on a regular basis.

“This is a great honor, but it’s really a great honor to be able to serve these kids,” Wallentine said. “Policing is all about service, and I think the best place you can serve is kids.”

Wallentine added the award is a reflection of not only him, but all of West Jordan police officers’ long-standing commitment to the children in the community.

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D.A.R.E. educates students on leading lives free from substance abuse, violence and other dangerous behaviors. It helps officers develop trust with students and promotes self-esteem in young people.

West Jordan Police Chief Ken Wallentine holds the Law Enforcement Executive of the Year award from D.A.R.E. America at the police department in West Jordan on Tuesday, June 22, 2021. | Spenser Heaps, Deseret News
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