Toogoolawah Adopt-a-cop is state’s best
TOOGOOLAWAH policeman John Cumner has been named Queensland’s Adopt-a-Cop of the Year.
Sergeant Cumner joined the Adopt-a-Cop program 19 years ago and was presented the award at a ceremony in Brisbane yesterday.
Sgt Cumner was officially adopted by Toogoolawah State School and Harlin State School in 2007 and he also devotes many hours to Toogoolawah State High School.
He teaches students about the role of police and the justice system, road safety and how to stay safe, and covers topics such as bullying and internet safety.
Sgt Cumner also attends meetings with staff and parents, attends special functions and presents awards and honours to students at the schools.
Police Minister Jack Dempsey said the program was important.
“Young people are often the most over-represented as victims of crime and through programs like Adopt-a-Cop police are able to arm them with the information they need,” he said.
“Sgt Cumner is just one of hundreds of outstanding Adopt-a-Cops from around the state who volunteer their time to help ensure young people are as safe as possible.
“During my time as a police officer, I found the program to be an incredibly rewarding and enjoyable part of the job and I am delighted to see there are still so many police officers willing to dedicate their time to continue such important work.”