January 21,  2005

Olympia…State Senator Don Benton, R-Vancouver, was selected as Legislator of the Year from the Senate Republican Caucus by the Washington Council of Police and Sheriffs (WACOPS).

Benton was honored Wednesday at the WACOPS luncheon in Olympia.

“Senator Benton has been a longtime supporter of police officers and their issues in the state of Washington,” said William Hanson, executive director of WACOPS. “This award is a small token of our appreciation for that support. He’s always been there when we need him.”

“It has truly been a privilege to serve you,” said Benton while addressing WACOPS members. “You do so much for us by putting your lives on the line every day.”

“He (Benton) has always been on board with law enforcement issues that have a dramatic effect on all law enforcement,” said Mike Amos, president of WACOPS.

The Washington Council of Police and Sheriffs is a professional organization that has protected the rights and the quality of life of sworn law enforcement officers before the Washington State Legislature for more than 35 years. The council has a long and impressive history of passing bills protecting those who have dedicated their lives to protecting and serving Washington communities.

Over 4,700 members strong, the Washington Council of Police and Sheriffs represents more than 80 persons of all sworn police officers and deputy sheriffs in Washington state.

For more information about WACOPS, visit its Web site at: http://www.wacops.org.

For more information contact Tami Davis (360) 786-7519 or davis.tami@leg.wa.gov

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