In 2003, the Westminster Police Department created three awards to be presented to citizens who have shown exemplary service in our community. These awards are:

• Above & Beyond Trophy. This award is presented for “Extraordinary Commitment to Community Safety” and is recommended by an officer for positive action in a case or incident.  In September of 2011, two trophies were presented to two citizens who saved the life of a woman by stopping the man who was trying to kill her.   

• Above & Beyond Certificate of Recognition. This award is presented to citizens who are recommended by an officer for their positive action in a case or incident.  The most recent certificate was awarded to a Manager of Del Taco.  He helped two small children who were hungry and could not find their way back home.

• Special Commendation Student Medal. The Westminster Police Department, Westminster Police Officers Association and the Westminster School District created the “Westminster Police Department Special Commendation.” This award recognizes two students a year at each elementary school for their hard work and spirit. Teachers and/or staff of each school select the winning students.While not specifically an academic award, good grades are encouraged as well as: a positive spirit, a willingness to help other students and staff, being a positive role model, being current with all assignments and projects, and being well behaved.  Once selected, the students are awarded their medals at a school assembly. These are presented by officers who work directly with the school. These awards were first presented on May 14, 2003. Over 30 medals are awarded each year.