For his “consistent efforts” and always going “above and beyond,” the Plymouth Township Council honored Officer Michael Watts as the Police Officer of the Year during Monday’s meeting.

Watts, who began his career with Plymouth Township in 2013, is a K9 officer who has supported explosive investigation efforts throughout southeastern Pennsylvania. Before joining the Plymouth Township Police Department he worked for five years with the Pennsylvania State Police.

“We’re proud to call Officer Watts one of our own,” Police Chief John Myrsiades said.

The police department’s supervisory staff chose Officer Watts for the recognition. Chief Myrsiades said the department accepts nominations for officer of the year. From there, a roundtable discussion and vote is held to determine “who’s the most deserving.”

In Officer Watts’ case, Chief Myrsiades said it wasn’t one isolated action that won him the top cop honor. Rather, Officer Watts’ “consistent effort over the years” made him stand out, according to the Chief.

“He always went above and beyond with residents and community events,” Chief Myrsiades said. “He makes himself so available and accessible on a consistent basis.”

Chief Myrsiades, who joined the Plymouth Township Police Department 31 years ago, said the Officer of the Year honor predates him.

In other police-related business, the Plymouth Township Council presented Noah Devaney, 12, with a commendation for winning the Chief for a Day contest. Noah, who will be a seventh-grader at Colonial Middle School, got an inside look at the work of police. During his stint as chief, Noah met with police command staff, Plymouth Township Manager Karen Weiss, conducted a vehicle stop, held a briefing with the SWAT team and met with the township mechanics.

Officer Michael Watts (Middle) is honored as Police Officer of the Year

Noah Devaney (Middle) recieves commendation for winning Chief for a Day contest

Contact: Theresa Katalinas

215-519-8833, [email protected]