SAN CLEMENTE : 3 Honored for Work in Emergency Services

A sheriff’s deputy, fire captain and radio dispatcher have been honored for their outstanding service to the community.

Patrol Deputy Brian Sims was honored as Police Deputy of the Year for his work as one of the most productive officers in the department, including the highest number of arrests, Lt. Tom Davis said.

Sims has served as a patrol deputy for nearly six years, including stints as a youth and gang violence patrol deputy.

Fire Captain Richard Northrup won the Firefighter of the Year award for more than 20 years of service to the city as a firefighter, emergency planner and training officer.

Northrup was instrumental in helping the city make a smooth transition when it decided to contract with the county for fire services, said Battalion Chief Gregg Lusher of the Orange County Fire Authority.

Radio dispatcher Gwen Loverink was honored as the Police Employee of the Year, chosen for her dedication during 11 years on the job.

As one of nine dispatchers employed by the city, Loverink helped to handle more than 35,000 calls for service this year, Davis said.

The three award recipients were nominated by their peers.

The honors, sponsored by the Exchange Club of San Clemente, are the city’s highest for community service in the fields of public safety, Davis said.