17 on DUI front lines are recognized by MADD

By Alexis Huicochea

arizona daily star

Tucson, Arizona | Published: 10.05.2006

Mothers Against Drunk Driving honored 15 local DUI officers and two prosecutors Wednesday night at its 17th annual awards banquet.

"The DUI Enforcement Awards are MADD's way of thanking those people who are on the front line in the fight against drunk driving," a news release from the agency's Tucson office stated.

Fourteen officers from as many law-enforcement agencies were nominated by the department they work for, the release said. Criteria included involvement in DUI arrests, quality investigations, certification in DUI training and involvement in the community through public speaking and other actions.

Lt. Karl Woolridge of the Pima County Sheriff's Department was awarded the Dr. Andy Nichols' Award, which recognizes one person who has gone above and beyond in furthering MADD's mission to stop drunken driving, support the victims of this crime and prevent underage drinking.

Woolridge is also the president of the Southern Arizona DUI Task Force. Former recipients of the award include Sgt. Ed Slechta, founder and past president of the Task Force, and Alberto Gutier, past director of the Arizona Governor's Office of Highway Safety for his efforts in working with alcohol-related legislation, the release said.

Additionally, two prosecutors were honored. Laura Roubicek and Ben Mendola were selected for their efforts to ensure that offenders are held accountable and for the quality of their relationship with victims.

This information is courtesy of http://www.azstarnet.com/