19 years on, and Raffi is still keeping our community safe
Special award for ‘special role model’ officer
For the last 19 years, judo expert Raffi Aghanian has been juggling his job as a machine operator, his family and another key responsibilty – protecting the public.
Since 1995, he has been serving as a Special Constable, a role for which he has now received a very special award.
Super-fit Raffi was one of 17 volunteer police officers who has been honoured at a longservice ceremony.
Between them, they have racked up 262 years of experience walking the beat.
“Our Special Constables deserve every bit of recogniti on for their selfless commitment in helping to keep North Yorkshire safe,” said Chief Constable Dave Jones, who handed Raffi his ‘medals and bars’.
“Free time is very valuable, especially with today’s busy lifestyles and I would like to thank both the officers and their families for the sacrifices they have made, giving up their own time to support policing in North Yorkshire.”
“I am very proud that we have such professional and dedicated Special Constables making such a huge contribution to society.”
He j o i n e d t h e f o rc e o n April 20 1995, when Take That were number one with Back for Good.
In that time, he has managed to still carry out his police duties while training and competing in judo competitions, representing the police nationally, as well as partaking in several gruelling ironman triathlons.
He has also battled back from recent life-threatening injuries sustained in a bike crash to get back on the beat.
North Yorkshire Police say Raffi has “proved an exceptional role model and mentor to both specials and regular officers alike.”
And Julia Mulligan, Police and Crime Commissioner for North Yorkshire, added: “Being a Special Constable is one of the most challenging and rewarding voluntary rol es possible.
“Specials form a really important part of the policing family in North Yorkshire, and I know from my own experience how valued they are by both police officers, and their local communities.
“I want to thank them all for their time and dedication.”