The Exchange Club of Southwest Michigan Hosts Law Enforcement Appreciation Luncheon

(r toL) Officer Wesley Springer-Grounds from Lincoln Township, Officer Alex Povenz from Benton Harbor Charter Township, Officer Jacob Wright from the City of St. Joseph, Detective Sergeant Cory Peek from the Berrien County Sheriff's Office, Detective Thad Chartrand, nominated from the County of Berrien, and Trooper Brock Belanger from the Michigan State Police. (not pictured Officer Kelly Wilkins, from the City of Benton Harbor)

Mike Sepic, retired Berrien County Prosecutor

         The Exchange Club of Southwest Michigan held its annual Law Enforcement Appreciation Luncheon on Tuesday, February 21, 2023 at Washington Avenue Church of God.  The service club has organized the luncheon to honor local law enforcement personal for many years.

         The honorees are chosen by their peers for their work in the community, showing honor and bravery while on duty. Each officer had a representative from their office introduce them and why they are being recognized. Eight police officers from Southwest Michigan were honored at the event.

         Those honored include Officer Eric Wolff from St. Joseph Township, who will retiring soon, Officer Wesley Springer-Grounds from Lincoln Township, Officer Alex Povenz from Benton Harbor Charter Township, Officer Jacob Wright from the City of St. Joseph, Detective Sergeant Cory Peek from the Berrien County Sheriff's Office, Detective Thad Chartrand, nominated from the County of Berrien, and Trooper Brock Belanger from the Michigan State Police.  Officer Kelly Wilkins, from the City of Benton Harbor was also honored but unable to attend due to an emergency.

         Mike Sepic, retired Berrien County Prosecutor, also spoke on “Public Safety, Every Day, Every Minute.”  The event was organized by Jim Ashbrook of the Exchange Club of Southwest Michigan.