A Holmes Beach police officer known for tracking down drivers operating vehicles under the influence of drugs or alcohol has been honored for his dedication.
Holmes Beach Police Officer Alan Bores, 38, received a dedication and professionalism award June 19 from U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan during the 16th District Congressional Law Enforcement Award ceremony at the Manatee County Courthouse in Bradenton.
“I didn’t know it was coming,” Bores said. “I feel very honored. My family and girlfriend think it’s very good for all the hard work I’ve done.”
In July, Bores will receive another award for enforcing DUI laws from Mothers Against Drunk Driving.
“Officer Bores has made the city of Holmes Beach a safer place to live and visit due to his outstanding police work and proactive patrolling,” read a news release issued by HBPD Detective Sgt. Brian Hall. “He has quickly become an invaluable member of the department.”
Chief Bill Tokajer recruited Bores in July 2015 to follow him to the HBPD from the Longboat Key Police Department. Bores is a Sarasota native going on his 14th year in law enforcement.
“He’s a very proactive enforcement officer,” Tokajer said. “He’s an officer who does the right thing. He’s somebody that can be trusted to do the right thing.”
Bores made 69 arrests in 2016, including 34 for driving under the influence.
He said he focuses on DUI arrests because they make the roads safer.
“Every day you read about accidents and fatalities that are caused by impairment,” he said.
His chief clue a driver might be tipsy or worse: Erratic driving.
Hall cited three instances where Bores came through with major arrests in 2016:
- Jan. 1: Bores arrested a home burglary suspect at an occupied residence with no injuries to the occupants.
- April 13: Bores stopped a vehicle and arrested the driver on multiple charges, including drug possession involving marijuana, cocaine and meth.
- Oct. 7: Bores arrested two suspects wanted in connection with several burglaries and property-damage cases.
Tokajer said Bores was selected for training as a drug recognition expert for his diligence in enforcing DUI laws. He is one of four in Manatee County.
Bores said the training enables him to detect other impairment besides alcohol, whether it’s drugs, medical issues or a combination.
“All have different signs of impairment,” Bores said.
Buchanan presented the award to Bores as one of 12 law enforcement personnel honored in his district. It’s at least the fourth year in a row for an HBPD employee to be recognized by Buchanan, Tokajer said.
“To win this award, it takes an officer who goes above and beyond the call of duty,” Tokajer said. “And that’s what Alan does. He’s been doing a great job.”
Buchanan established his awards six years ago to recognize law enforcement officers, departments and units for exceptional achievement, according to a news release from his office.
Buchanan stated, “Every day, brave men and women put themselves in harm’s way to enforce the laws of our society and protect public safety. They deserve our gratitude and respect. These awards are a fitting tribute to our officers and a reminder of the important role they play in our communities.”
Buchanan’s award winners were chosen by a panel of law enforcement personnel.