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www.insideHALTON.com · OAKVILLE BEAVER Wednesday, May 9, 2012 · 18 Halton Regional Police Deputy Chief Andrew Fletcher will receive the Governor General's Order of Merit of the Police Forces during a special ceremony in Ottawa today (May 9). The Order of Merit was created in 2000, to honour a career of exceptional Deputy chief receives Order of Merit in Ottawa service or distinctive merit displayed by the men and women of Canadian police forces. Fletcher's policing career dates back to 1984. During this time he has worked with the Regional Drug and Morality Unit, the Criminal Investigations Bureau, the Homicide Unit and has served as a member of the Tactical Rescue Unit. Fletcher has worked closely with numerous community agencies and regional partners through the Auxiliary Unit, School Resource Officers and Volunteer Services. He also continues to support a number of key service initiatives including the Police Pipes and Drums, the Citizens Police Academy, Police Day and the Special Olympics. Fletcher said he is especially proud of the relationships he has created through years of coaching youth soccer. He is also active with the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police as the current Chair of the Crime Prevention Committee and a member of the Common Police Environment Group (CPEG). "This honour is truly befitting considering Deputy Chief Fletcher's numerous accomplish- Dep. Chief Andrew Fletcher ments throughout his exemplary career," said Halton Police Chief Gary Crowell. "His leadership, commitment in his duties and community involvement make him a worthy beneficiary of this prestigious award." Road Safety Week is coming May 14 Aggressive drivers, impaired drivers and distracted drivers may want to stay at home next week, as the Halton Regional Police Service participates in Canada's Road Safety Week. The national campaign, which is intended to make Canada's roads the safest in the world, is sponsored by Transport Canada and endorsed by police services across the nation. Halton police report they will be out in force during the week of May 14, looking for aggressive drivers, impaired drivers, distracted drivers and those not wearing seatbelts. "In the ongoing quest to enhance road safety we all play an important part," said Deputy Police Chief Bob Percy. "This national initia- tive once again demonstrates the need for collaboration in keeping all road users safe." There is no shortage of examples illustrating what happens when residents do not drive safely. In 2011 alone Halton police reported 8,386 motor vehicle accidents on Halton's roads. Nearly 6,000 of these accidents resulted in property damage while 1,174 resulted in injuries, and 15 of the incidents resulted in death. For more news, features and photos, visit www.oakvillebeaver.com or www.insidehalton.com