Officer of The Year (2012)
Gus Escalante
Officer Escalante was hired by the Leesburg Police Department in June of 2010. Since his employment, Officer Escalante has consistently demonstrated a high degree of professionalism and excellence. He has exceeded the expectations of his supervisors and that of his coworkers. In fact, it was his coworkers who overwhelmingly selected Gus for this well deserved recognition.
In January of 2012, the Leesburg Police Department asked each of its employees too cast a ballot for the officer they believed exemplified what it means to be “the best of the best”. The overwhelming choice was Officer Gustavo Escalante. This honor followed Gus’ selection as Officer of the Month four different months in 2011 by department supervisors.
Officer Escalante’s supervisor describes Gus as hard working, pro-active team player. Through his demonstrated performance, Officer Escalante has earned each of these descriptive words. Some examples of Gus’ hard charging and professional style include his identification and single handed apprehension of one of Lake County’s 10 most wanted; consistently having the highest productivity department wide; and countless letters of compliment from citizens.
When Officer Escalante sets goals for himself, he tends to achieve success. One such example involved his desire to join Leesburg’s highly skilled SWAT team. After successfully completing his probationary period, Gus requested approval to try out for a position on the team. After a grueling series of tests, Gus was awarded a spot on the team. SWAT commanders were so impressed with Gus’ fortitude and decision making that they immediately elevated his status and included him on the team that competed in the SWAT Roundup competition.
Officer Escalante has set the bar extremely high for those officers who have been hired after him. It’s refreshing to witness Gus’ professionalism at a level normally reserved for more seasoned officers. He is an asset to the department and the community he so loyally serves.
Previous Officers of the Year
2011: Andrew Ensminger
2010: Kyle Moore
2009: Jon Graver
2008: Kyle Moore