Defore Named Smithville Police Officer of the Month

Smithville Police Officer Lilani Defore has been recognized as “Officer of the Month”
Defore is a three year veteran of the Smithville Police Department assigned to the Patrol Division. She is also the department’s Domestic Assault Coordinator and reviews all domestic assaults, sexual assaults, and child abuse cases.
Defore is originally from Texas but has been a resident in the area for over thirteen years.
The commendation, signed by Smithville Police Chief Thomas J. Stufano, Mayor Taft Hendrixson, and Police Commissioner Aaron Meeks, states that “On behalf of the City of Smithville Police Department I would like to commend you for your recent actions and diligent efforts in your capacity as Police Patrol Officer. Your determination and diligent efforts and participation in the recent investigation of a sexual predator resulted in the arrest of an individual that has caused hardship and mental anguish on young children. Due to the graphic nature and sensitivity of this type of crime your compassion, professionalism and expertise enabled the victim and the residents of our city to feel that justice has been served. Your impressive actions in this case are a credit to your professionalism as a Smithville Police Officer.”
“Additionally, your excellent work in traffic enforcement for the month of December has shown the motoring public that driving safety within our jurisdiction is a priority. Your work ethic and tenacity during the month of December has shown your true commitment to the citizens we serve and your fellow officers.”
“Last, your self initiation and strong interpersonal skills have shown favorably on the Police Department and our City Leadership. I appreciate your input and current performance and for that you are hereby formally recognized and commended with a copy of this Commendation becoming apart of your permanent personnel record for all to see.”
“Congratulations on a job well done.”
Defore says “I wanted to make a difference in someone’s life who needed help. By being a police officer, I can interact with a lot of people in various situations and the friendships I have developed over the year’s here in Smithville has satisfied that dream.”