Contacts: Lt. Kevin Ayd, MDTA Police, 410-977-5772

MDTA POLICE HONOR TOP COPS

Harford County Resident Named Officer of the Year

BALTIMORE, MD - Yesterday, Governor Larry Hogan's Homeland Security Advisor Col. Thomas E. Hutchins and Executive Director of the Office of Crime Control and Prevention Christopher B. Shank joined Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) Executive Director Bruce W. Gartner and MDTA Police Chief Col. Michael T. Kundrat to honor sworn and civilian members of the MDTA Police who distinguished themselves during 2014.

"Our bridges, tunnels, highways, ports and airports are critical to our daily lives," said Executive Director Gartner. "These are the public servants who put their lives on the line to help keep our citizens and visitors safe and secure as they use these vital transportation facilities. Without them, we could not have a solid transportation system that makes a difference for Maryland."

MDTA Police Officer of the Year for 2014. A Harford County resident and a 4-year member of the force; Off. Burnett received the award for his exceptional work and service while assigned to the MDTA Police detachment at the Inter-County Connector. He is a well-rounded officer and a leader in criminal and traffic enforcement.

"Last year, the men and women of the MDTA Police continued to excel as a police force in carrying out its mission," said MDTA Police Chief Kundrat. "I am proud of Off. Burnett and each of the recipients who were honored and recognized for their efforts during last nights ceremony."

More than 60 officers and civilians also were honored with Awards of Excellence, Lifesaving Awards, Chief's Commendations, Distinguished Service Awards and Top DUI Enforcement officers, among others. Award recipients were nominated by citizens or by fellow employees.

A nationally accredited force, the MDTA Police is the seventh-largest law-enforcement agency in the State, with more than 600 sworn and civilian professionals. MDTA Police officers provide law enforcement at the MDTA's highways, bridges and tunnels, BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport and the Port of Baltimore.

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