Sgt. Melissa Plunkett | Police Services Hero of the Year Award nominee

Sergeant Melissa Plunkett has been nominated for the Police Services Hero of the Year Award for her 24 years of service going above and beyond for those she serves.

“I’ve dealt with everything,” she said, “from families who lost loved ones in a car crash to people with mental health issues and everyone deserves compassion and support.”

Sgt. Plunkett has moved through departments at OPS, such as fatal collisions, general investigations and others. But she makes sure to spread awareness and inform the community about policing off the job as well.

“A friend of mine lived in Israel and had two boys there,” she explained. “They are now back in Ottawa, and I talk to them a lot, will go by in uniform or show them the cruiser when I am on the road.”

“It’s obviously very different what they saw in Israel versus what police are like here and I think it’s important to let them know that the police are approachable, and they can come to us if ever they need help.”

For Sgt. Plunkett, it’s important to show a different side to policing. “It’s not just one side, that police are out to get you, catch you in a traffic stop,” she shared. “There’s another side to it and it’s nice to show that we’re here to help, especially to kids.”

Born and raised in Ottawa, Sgt. Plunkett always knew she wanted to be a police officer here. “I don’t have anyone in my family who is a police officer,” she said. “But my parents being shift workers and my mom being a nurse, it was always in me to help people.”

When she found out she was nominated, Sgt. Plunkett was shocked. “I was surprised, and I was also humbled by the nomination,” she shared. “It’s nice to be recognized for making a difference in the community, and that’s what I have always strived to do.”