Harmon wins Apopka Police Department 2017 Supervisor of the Year

Editor's Note: This is the second in a series of articles about the Apopka Police Department's 2017 award winners. Today, we feature the Supervisor of the Year - Sergeant Steve Harmon.

Sergeant Steve Harmon has been an officer with the Apopka Police Department for 15 years. During that time, he has proven himself as one of its finest officers. Harmon always has a smile on his face and is quick to stop and listen to anyone and always responds with the direction that comes from the goodness in his heart.

This past year, Harmon was moved from the Patrol Division, where he had spent all of his career, to the Traffic Unit. After taking on an assignment well outside of his comfort zone, he quickly made the position his priority. Unbeknownst to him, the traffic supervisor position came with a host of responsibilities that would prove to require his constant attention.

Sgt. Harmon quickly developed his expertise in each area of the job, including not only enforcement, but community involvement, outside agency cooperation, and budgeting and purchasing.

APD Chief Michael McKinley is impressed with Harmon's transition to what is a difficult and often thankless role.

"Upon taking over the traffic unit, over a year ago, Sergeant Harmon hit the ground running," said McKinley. "As the Police Chief, one of the biggest complaints I receive from the community is traffic complaints. Sergeant Harmon has done an outstanding job ensuring the traffic unit addresses these complaints to keep our commuters safe. He keeps a log of all the complaints the department receives to ensure the traffic unit monitors these areas from time to time. He is also involved in many events that help our community. Recently, he helped organize an event to raise money for Cystic Fibrosis. He leads our agency’s efforts in the Law Enforcement Torch Run every year to raise funds for Special Olympics. Steve is an active supervisor who leads by example. He is out on the streets working alongside the other members of the traffic unit. His dedication to the citizens of Apopka, the Apopka Police Department and organizations within our community are what earned him Supervisor of the Year. Recognition that is definitely deserved."

Harmon led this unit all the while continuing to be an integral part and leader of the multi-agency SWAT team. He participates in the SWAT Round-up annually and is known as one of our department’s most athletic officers. Just recently, he participated and completed a full marathon that he did outside of the job.

Harmon also leads the APD's Honor Guard Unit and his time committed to the unit is unprecedented. He works with the members to ensure there are uniformity and professionalism.

Congratulations Sergeant Harmon, and thank you for all you do in the community.

Editor's Note: The Apopka Police Department 2017 Awards Ceremony program was used for some of the content in this feature.