Lacey Police Officer Honored For DWI Work

LACEY TOWNSHIP, NJ - Township Patrolman Michael Verwey has made it his mission to get drunk drivers off the roadways.

Verwey was honored on Thursday for his efforts. He was named as a finalist in the 2017 Kimberly Smith Ames DWI Prevention Award by the Ocean County Police Traffic Safety Officers Association and Kimberly's family, Police Chief Michael C. DiBella said.

It wasn't the first time the veteran police officer has been recognized for his efforts. He was awarded the 7th annual Jason Marles D.W.I. award back in August. He also won the 2014 Kimberly Smith Ames award and was a previous recipient of the Mothers Against Drunk Driving award.

The Kimberly Smith Ames Award was created by Edward and Carol Smith in memory of their daughter, who was killed by a drunk driver in 1998. She was only 23. Her unborn child also died in the accident. Her parents wanted to recognize Ocean County officers who have shown a strong commitment to stopping drunk drivers in their towns.

"Officer Verwey is regularly recognized by his peers for his dedication to DUI Enforcement," DiBella said. "Officer Verwey continues to be an asset to our agency and I look forward to his continued commitment to protecting the citizens of Lacey Township from drunk drivers."

The top honor for the 2017 Kimberly Smith Ames DWI Award went to Officer Chris Linnell of the Seaside Heights Police Department.

Verwey has been a police officer for 13 years and has been with the Lacey police department's patrol division since 2013. Prior to that, he served as an police officer in Burlington City, Medford and Waterford Township. he is a member of the Southern Ocean County SWAT Team and the Ocean County Fatal Accident Support Team.

Photo: Courtesy of Police Chief Michael C. DiBella