A LITHGOW police officer with a reputation for cracking down on street crime and mentoring junior colleagues has been awarded the Chifley Police District's highest honour.
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Senior Constable Philip O'Brien was named the Paul Quinn Memorial Award recipient for 2019 during a ceremony in Bathurst on Thursday.
The state's highest ranking officer, Police Commissioner Michael Fuller, was among those in attendance, alongside Western Region commander Assistant Commissioner Geoff McKechnie and Chifley commander Superintendent Paul McDonald.
In announcing Senior Constable Philip O'Brien's award, MC Inspector David Abercrombie said Sergeant Paul Quinn - who was killed 33 years ago while on duty at Perthville - epitomised everything a police officer should be: courageous, compassionate and devoted to duty.
Inspector Abercrombie said Senior Constable O'Brien was a worthy recipient as an officer focused on operational policing who leads by example in every aspect of his duties.
"He is universally respected and recognised as an officer with experience, skills and knowledge," Inspector Abercrombie said.
"He has a particular focus on street crime and proactivity, and is seen as a leader in his area.
"He has a particular strength as a mentor and has a genuine interest in the development and education of junior staff. He's a valued member of the Chifley Police District and a worthy winner."
Senior Constable O'Brien said he was incredibly humbled to receive the award.
Now in his 13th year of policing, he was stationed at Lithgow two years ago. Before joining the police he came from a military background.
Senior Constable O'Brien said what he loves most about policing is the ability to serve, and said his work was a representation of what every NSW police officer does every day in the field.
Superintendent Paul McDonald also congratulated Senior Constable O'Brien on the award.
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