Delta Police officer Const. Jaspreet (Jessy) Sahota has been recognized with the prestigious International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Top 40 under 40 Award.
The award recognizes police officers from around the globe exemplifying leadership, dedication, and service to the law enforcement profession. This year’s winners come from the United States, Australia, India, the United Arab Emirates, and Canada.
Sahota is being recognized for promoting community safety and well-being through his work with at-risk youth, focusing on cultivating resiliency and empowering youth to avoid the perils of drugs, gangs, crimes, and violence.
“It is a great honour especially considering how many great men and women I work alongside, not just in Delta, but the entire Lower Mainland,” he said. “To be nominated for such an award is an honour, but to win it, is just something extra special.”
As a Youth Liaison Officer, Sahota works with at-risk and high-risk youth in the community with the goal of stabilizing the youth by establishing positive connections with police, schools, counsellors, and mentors. His dedication to steering youth toward a positive and resilient path is a passion – a passion that he incorporates into his on-duty work and off-duty through volunteer coaching, serving as a mentor for countless youth.
“Every officer, every firefighter and every first responder has their strengths and weaknesses and I think my strength is being able to contribute to our youth through sport and healthy living,” he said. “It was the Chief himself who said you know what your strengths are, build on them and share them with our community and that is what I have tried to do.
“It feels weird to get praise because those are the best parts of my day. I feel weird if I miss practice or I don’t go help out. It is the highlight of my day and my week. It is a privilege and I look forward to working with our youth every time.”
Sahota, a three-time Canadian National Champion in wrestling and kabaddi superstar, believes that team sports are an essential catalyst to connect with, teach skills, and empower youth. Earlier this year, he spearheaded the DPD’s Youth Wrestling Program, which has been more successful than imagined.
“We are honoured to learn that Const. Sahota has been selected as one of the recipients of this esteemed recognition,” says Chief Constable Neil Dubord. “Through this award, we celebrate his service, achievements, and dedication to community safety. Const. Sahota has a steadfast commitment to working with and developing the future of our society: our youth, and we are proud to have him on our team. The Delta Police Department is lucky to have so many talented employees.”
