BULLHEAD CITY – The Bullhead City Police Department recognized police officers, civilian employees and citizens who have contributed in a special way to help others and improve public safety. On Wednesday during the 2023 Annual Awards Program, Officer Zachary Madarang was named Police Officer of the Year and Lead Records Clerk Haley Simpson was named Civilian Employee of the Year.
Officer Madarang began his law enforcement career as a public safety dispatcher for the Sierra Vista Police Department where he served for three years. He became a Bullhead City Police Officer in January, 2015. Ofc. Madarang was assigned as an Arizona State Gang Task Force detective from 2018 – 2023. He quickly became known for his tenacity and technical expertise in locating gang members and fugitives, demonstrating capability well beyond his years of service.
Officer Madarang thrived in this assignment and is credited with generating 341 arrests, including 55 gang members during his service with GIITEM (Gang & Immigration Intelligence Team Enforcement Mission).
Officer Madarang is also passionate about community engagement and interaction with youth. He currently serves as the Vice President of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #50 and enjoys participating in the FOP Santa Sleigh, Shop with a Cop, and other community programs.
After his time with GIITEM, he continues to share his extensive knowledge with his squad mates in patrol.
Haley Simpson began her career as a Records Clerk in January 2022 and was promoted to Lead Records Clerk only one year later. In her leadership role, she has implemented positive changes in the property and evidence section, as well as updated policies and procedures with records retention and public information requests.
“Haley is well organized, willing to learn and take on any challenge she is faced with,” said Support Services Division Commander Lt. Brad Holdway. “She has accomplished a lot in a short time. We thank her for all her hard work and look forward to what Haley will accomplish in the future.”
A special mention to Medal of Honor recipients: Sergeant Thomas Canfield, Sergeant Sean Watson, Detective Scott Grigsby and Officer Angel Gomez. These officers worked together to pinpoint the location of a gunshot wound victim and render medical aid during an active scene where a barricaded shooter was firing rounds at police. These officers went above and beyond the call of duty by putting themselves in harm’s way to save the life of an innocent victim.
“Human nature directs us to flee from danger, yet you all chose to do the opposite to save a life,” said Chief of Police Robert Trebes. “Thank you for your strength, bravery and dedication to the safety of our community and its citizens.”
Commendation Medal recipients: Officer Angel Gomez, who seems to be in the right place at the right time. He was recognized several times during the Awards Program for his life-saving efforts at various incidents where he rendered first aid.
Detective Scott Grisby was also recognized for devoting his time and energy to combatting the Fentanyl crisis by seeking out and arresting individuals for selling these deadly pills. Det. Grigsby was also commended for his commitment to assist drug users and addicts to get the help and resources they need.
Several citizens also received awards for their assistance and acts of bravery during emergency situations. A special mention to the following individuals who received the Citizen’s Medal of Valor, which is the department’s highest award given to a civilian: Matthew Hughes for coming to the aid of his neighbors who were being attacked.
Sara Grimard, Daniel Johnson and Hugh Rosett were recognized for their immediate medical assistance to render aid to a pedestrian who was struck by a hit-and-run driver. A makeshift tourniquet was applied before first responders arrived on scene.
