Police Officer Honoured For Work With Youth
Constable Dedicated To Fostering Positive Interactions Between Youth And Police
PRESS RELEASE
Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services
Constable Todd Snooks, a community liaison officer with the York Regional
Police is been honoured for his work with youth. The 13-year police veteran is this year’s recipient of the Bud Knight Award, recognizing commitment and dedication to youth, above and beyond the call of duty. The award acknowledged Snooks for his many contributions including the creation of a Photography Club mentoring program in York Region. The club allows youth to experience positive interactions with police officers using photography to open communication and build rapport. Together, students and police are taught the art of taking pictures and engage in activities such as organizing an art display at the Union Village Festival in Markham.
The Bud Knight Award was established in 1990 to honour the career of Herbert ‘Bud’ Knight, an Ontario Police College instructor. Now retired, Knight was instrumental in establishing a Committee of Youth Officers with the college in 1979.
“Constable Todd Snooks is building on Bud Knight’s legacy. He is a strong role model and a positive influence on our youth. His many accomplishments are an inspiration to his colleagues and offer hope and opportunity to young people in his community.”
— Rick Bartolucci, Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services
- Community liaison officers work with students and others to develop innovative solutions to local problems including gangs, drugs, bullying, internet safety and domestic violence.
- Research has shown that a connection to a caring adult is an essential part of student engagement.
Read about the Committee of Youth Officers or the Bud Knight Award.