Three Citrus Heights Police officers awarded Distinguished Service medals

By Sara Beth Williams–
Three Citrus Heights Police officers were awarded Distinguished Service medals during the Citrus Heights City Council meeting Wednesday night.

Citrus Heights Police Chief Alex Turcotte awarded three officers medals of Distinguished Service for displaying “remarkable composure under pressure” and praised the officers for their professionalism and commitment to public safety in the face of imminent danger.

Citrus Heights Police officer Hayden LaCurelle was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal for his actions in handling a situation involving a suspect armed with a knife, where he was alone for an extended period of time. Turcotte said LaCurelle showed “exceptional skill” in his ability to deescalate the situation, resulting in a peaceful resolution, preventing what could have otherwise been a tragic outcome.

Police officers Sheldon Hansen and Christopher Edwards were awarded medals for their actions in saving a disabled man from a structure fire in July 2024. Both officers entered a burning home and carried a wheelchair-bound man to safety, Turcotte said.

“I’m so impressed when we have heroes, and I know we have many heroes in the rank of our PD,” Citrus Heights Mayor Jayna Karpinski-Costa said following the award of the three medals. City Council members all around praised the police officers for their heroism.

“Medals are awarded to officers who distinguish themselves by performing well in a stressful situation that involves imminent danger to themselves or others, by using exceptional tactics and judgment,” Turcotte said, adding that the Distinguished Service Medal is the second highest medal police departments can bestow on officers.

The award includes a personalized medal, blue and white ribbon, and a certificate of recognition.