GALT, CA (MPG) - On Feb. 12, the Galt Police Department celebrated the dedication, courage and commitment of its team by honoring award recipients at its annual ceremony.

From the steady leadership of the Officer of the Year, Matthew Walters, to the calm and critical decision-making of its Dispatcher of the Year, Makaila Genilla, each honoree represents the very best of public service.

 

Galt Police Department Officer Matthew Walters was named the department’s 2025 Officer of the Year award recipient during the annual awards ceremony on Feb. 12.  

The Galt Police Department celebrated its Professional Staff of the Year recipient, Nicole Latino, and Volunteer of the Year recipient, John Salazar, whose behind-the-scenes efforts and selfless contributions keep the department running strong. The department also recognized the recipient of the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Award, Officer Kyle Hughes, honoring outstanding commitment to keeping impaired drivers off our roadways and protecting our community.

A special acknowledgment goes to the department’s Life Saving Award recipients. This year, multiple members were recognized for stepping forward in moments that mattered most, deploying Narcan to reverse overdoses and performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to restore life. Their quick actions and unwavering resolve made the ultimate difference.

The department also took time to honor recently retired canine Rex for his loyal and dedicated service to the Galt Police Department and community. His years of partnership, protection and unwavering commitment will leave a lasting legacy.

 

On Feb. 12, the Galt Police Department celebrated the dedication, courage and commitment of its team by honoring award recipients at its annual ceremony.

The ceremony was made even more meaningful as four new members were welcomed to the department during a swearing-in ceremony. As they took their oath, they joined a proud tradition of service, integrity and commitment to the Galt community: Officers Abdullah Taimoori and Luis Naranjo Diaz, dispatcher Serena-Helene Winton and administration member Mikaela Phan.

Congratulations to all the department’s award recipients and welcome to the newest team members. The Galt Police Department is grateful for the dedication each of you brings to this profession every single day.