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Chris Ruys (312) 337-7746
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Saturday, May 15, 2004 in Monticello

Piatt County Sheriff's Deputy To Receive Award
From Illinois State Bar Association

Piatt County Sheriff's Deputy John D. Russell, of Monticello, will receive the 2004 Law Enforcement Award from the Illinois State Bar Association (ISBA) on Saturday, May 15, at 9:00 a.m., during the grand opening of the new Piatt County Public Safety Building, 1216 Raymond Dr., in Monticello.

The award is being given in recognition of the sheriff's professionalism, a superior law enforcement record and the development of a culture of community service in the Piatt County Sheriff's Department. ISBA board member Keith Fruehling will present the award.

In his nomination, Piatt County State's Attorney Leonard Rumery acknowledged the many community service activities which Deputy Russell undertakes on a voluntary basis. He presents the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program in local schools and makes presentations to junior high school students who are studying the U.S. and state Constitutions. For driver's education classes, he presents the law enforcement perspective. He also explains basic safety procedures to kindergarten and first graders in the county.

The Law Enforcement Award was created to recognize sworn law enforcement officers for conduct that promotes justice and to distinguish those individuals whose service to the public brings honor and respect to the entire criminal justice system. The award is given sparingly to recognize those who truly excel in the field of law enforcement.

The 30,000-member Illinois State Bar Association, with offices in Springfield and Chicago, provides professional services to Illinois lawyers, and education and services to the public.