Edina Police Officers Honored with Distinguished Service Awards

Police Chief Jeff Long recognized a pair of longtime Edina Police officers last week for "going beyond expectations on a continual basis."

Sgt. Vik Konters and Officer Jim Rygg were presented with Distinguished Service Awards during the Oct. 2 City Council meeting.

Long praised the two officers, noting the awards aren't simply "given out for just fulfilling expectations."

Konters was honored for his 20 years of service with the Minnesota Law Enforcement Memorial Association's (LEMA) Honor Guard, which he helped found many years ago. He has taken part in funerals for more than 20 fallen police officers and participated in more than 150 other LEMA events throughout the country. 

"By so generously and faithfully giving his time and talent, Sgt. Konters has made a positive impact on Minnesota law enforcement families and beyond," Long said. 

Officer Jim Rygg was recognized for his dedication to traffic safety, particularly by using traffic enforcement "as a multipurpose tool to promote safe driving." In his 18 years with the Edina Police Department, Long said Rygg has written approximately 25,000 traffic citations. Over the course of the last two-and-a-half years, Rygg has averaged 236 citations per month.

"He exemplifies the high level of dedication and professionalism we aspire to at the City of Edina," Long said. "His dedication to citizen safety is beyond compare."

Rygg said he was happy his family and coworkers were on hand to share in his accomplishment.

"It is always nice to be recognized for the work that we do," he said.

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