Poplar Bluff Police Chief Danny Whiteley was recognized Wednesday by city officials after being named "Top Cop," by the Missouri Police Chiefs Association.
Mayor Ed DeGaris presented Whiteley with a proclamation during a meeting of the city council.
DeGaris said he was sorry it took a state award to bring about this recognition. Whiteley has been chief for the past 17 years.
"We got so used to your dedication and professionalism, we just think everybody does that," said DeGaris. "It's made us realize they don't, and how fortunate we are that you're leading our troops."
Whiteley was presented with the Top Cop award in December, saying at the time he was excited and proud to represent his hometown.
Under Whiteley's leadership, the city has a great police department, DeGaris said.
As chief, he has attended the University of Arkansas Criminal Justice Institute and received advanced SWAT training at the Springfield (Missouri) Police Academy. Whiteley also has attended the National Threat Assessment Seminar sponsored by the United States Secret Service.
He was named Outstanding Citizen of the Year in 2010 by the Greater Poplar Bluff Area Chamber of Commerce, and is a past city council member, Poplar Bluff schools board member and reserve deputy for the Butler County Sheriff's Department.