Polk County Police Chiefs Honor Two Lakeland Police Officers

The Polk County Police Chiefs Association recognized two Lakeland Police officers during an awards ceremony Thursday night in Lakeland. It is with a tremendous sense of pride we also publicly recognize these officers at this time.

Officer Michael Cardin was awarded PCPCA Police Officer of the Year for his rescue of a person trapped in an overturned and burning vehicle at a traffic crash scene. Upon being the first rescuer to arrive at the crash scene and with no regard for his own personal safety, Officer Cardin entered the burning vehicle and dragged the victim to safety. The victim was treated at the hospital and survived.

Sergeant Chad Mumbauer was awarded Honorable Mention for his lifesaving efforts with a person who was choking on food. Though off-duty at the time, Sergeant Mumbauer was able to take over rescue efforts from bystanders and perform abdominal thrusts that successfully dislodged the object blocking the victim's airway. The victim survived in this event as well.

Sgt. Mumbauer, Chief Boatner, and Ofc. Cardin

A police officer never knows when their training will become the difference between life and death for someone. We are extremely proud of these two heroes who responded when their skills were so desperately needed by a stranger. Congratulations Chad and Michael!

- Asst Chief Bill LePere

Comments

[Asst Chief Bill LePere]

Thank you Kathy for your kind words of support. We, too, want to extend our condolences to the surving family, friends, and coworkers of Miami PD Officer James Walker who was slain in North Miami Beach earlier this week.

[Kathy]

I wish to send my congratulations in. Our police ROCK!! Best department anywhere. And my deepest sympathies to all in the death of a fellow officer in N. Miami. Our thoughts and prayers are with all law enforcement today and in the months ahead. May God bless and watch over all of you.

[LPD Dispatcher]

Way to go guys! You make us proud!