The North Dakota Peace Officers Association has named Highway Patrol Trooper Eric Pederson of Watford City as its Peace Officer of the Year.
The honor was presented to Pederson in recognition of outstanding service, professional dignity and unselfish contribution to the association and the citizens of North Dakota. It is the association's highest honor.
The association's Lone Eagle Award was presented to retired North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation Special Agent Milt Lennick, Bismarck, and Maj. Jim Thoreson, Cass County Sheriff's Department. The Lone Eagle awards were presented by North Dakota Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem.
The Lone Eagle award is presented annually to a retired and an active officer, each of whom in the eyes of their fellow officers has contributed guidance, inspiration and support throughout their careers.
Maj. Pat Heinert, of the Burleigh County Sheriff's Department, was elected president of the association.
