The Merriam Police Department named Master Police Officer Kristin Jasinski as its 2018 Officer of the Year.

Nominated by her peers, MPO Jasinski said it’s an honor to be recognized with this award.

“I’m blessed to work with an extraordinary group of people who are constantly pushing me to be and do better,” MPO Jasinski said. “Being recognized by coworkers that I have unbelievable respect for is an incredibly humbling experience.”

MPO Jasinski started her career with the Merriam Police Department in 2015. In addition to her duties as a patrol officer, MPO Jasinski holds a number of special assignments within the department. She’s a field training officer, instructing newly hired officers. She’s also the department’s tactical medical instructor, WRAP restraint instructor, a member of the peer support team, and is on the Merriam police honor guard.

MPO Jasinski contributes her talents outside of the City as she serves on the Kansas City Metro Squad helping investigate murder cases and is an instructor for the Northeast Johnson County Active Shooter Team. MPO Jasinski had previously served as a member of the U.S. Army Reserve for eight years.

Merriam Police Chief Michael Daniels said MPO Jasinski is an outstanding officer who is deserving of this honor.

“MPO Jasinski was nominated by her peers for her outstanding work, dedication to our profession, and her ability to be in the right place at the right time with the right skills to save two people’s lives during the year,” Chief Daniels said. “Her attention to duty is second to none, and she truly has a servant’s heart.”

In 2018, the Merriam Police Department recognized MPO Jasinski for saving two lives. One involving a man having a heart attack and the other involving a choking toddler.

Congratulations, MPO Jasinski!