BULLHEAD CITY, Ariz. – November 20, 2024 – The Bullhead City Police Department recognized police officers, civilian employees and citizens who have contributed in a special way to help others and improve public safety. On Wednesday, during the 2024 Annual Awards Program, Sergeant Richard Riger was named Police Officer of the Year and Emergency Services Dispatcher Angie McCullough Butcher was named Civilian Employee of the Year.
Sergeant Richard Riger began his career with the Bullhead City Police Department in December 2011. He was promoted to the rank of Corporal in 2019 and Sergeant in 2021. Sgt. Riger has been the department’s SWAT Team Leader since 2021, and has led several successful missions. He also serves as a firearms instructor and Glock and M4 armorer.
In 2022, he was reassigned from the Bureau of Patrol to the Vice/Narcotics Section where his team is very proactive in their pursuit of removing dangerous drugs and narcotics from the tri-state area. He is well respected by his peers and his work ethic and dedication are contagious.
Sgt. Riger’s personnel file contains many accolades from citizens for his professionalism and kindness and multiple department awards for his excellence. He received the Bullhead City Police Department’s Medal of Honor in 2022 in recognition of his bravery in preventing a wrong-way drunk driver from potentially colliding head on with other motorists.
Sgt. Riger represents our department with pride and distinction. He is an excellent officer, leader and mentor.
Emergency Services Dispatcher Angela McCullough Butcher has been dispatching since 1994. Angie has been a valued member of the Bullhead City Police Department for several years since 2004. She consistently goes above and beyond what is expected. She is patient, professional and understanding when she is on calls. She is highly proficient and quickly able to determine what needs to be done, including her high-performance record in providing life-saving CPR instructions to callers.
Angie is a leader and a role model for both new and seasoned dispatchers, excelling in her role as a communications training officer. Her knowledge, patience and nurturing nature make her an excellent mentor.
Angie also serves as a Communications Specialist with the Tactical Response Unit. Her dedication, work ethic and positive attitude are just some of the many reasons she received the Civilian Employee of the Year award in 2018 and again in 2024.
Congratulations to all those who received an award for their excellence and dedication to the community.
