CWU Police Chief To Receive Two Prestigious Awards

April 15, 2004

Contact: Robert Lowery (509-963-1487/fax 509-963-2301/e-mail: loweryr@cwu.edu)

ELLENSBURG, Wash.-- Because of his well-known commitments to crime prevention and sexual assault deterrence, Steve Rittereiser, Central Washington University police chief, will be honored this week by both the Washington State Crime Prevention Association (WSCPA) and the Washington Coalition of Sexual Assault Programs (WCSAP.

During an April 21 ceremony in Pasco, Rittereiser will receive the fourth annual WSCPA Crime Prevention Chief or Sheriff of the Year award. It's based on his recognition of the importance of and participation in crime prevention, development of crime prevention training programs and service to the association. For eight years, Rittereiser served as the liaison between WSCPA and the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs.

In addition to the plaque Rittereiser will receive, his name will be inscribed on a permanent display located at the Criminal Justice Training Commission office in Burien.

"To be recognized by the top crime prevention organization in our state is a real honor," Rittereiser says. "I'm pleased to accept this award on behalf of the crime prevention work being done daily by our law enforcement officers in partnership with the community."

Established in 1978, the purpose of the non-profit WSCPA is to contribute to the reduction and control of criminal victimization in Washington, in part, through encouraging crime prevention education in public, private, and voluntary sectors, providing support and guidance for crime prevention programs and activities, and enhancing development and implementation of crime prevention programs.

Rittereiser's award is one of six that will be presented during the Wednesday event. On April 23, in Bellevue, Rittereiser will be honored with the WCSAP Gerald L. Swain Award, established to commemorate a committed activist and WCSAP staff member.

The award is presented annually to an individual working "outside of the box" to end sexual assault. Rittereiser was nominated for it by Gail Farmer, director of the CWU wellness center, and Cheryl Cathcart, coordinator of the domestic violence/sexual assault ASPEN (Abuse, Support and Prevention Education Now) program in Ellensburg.

Cathcart nominated him, in part, for his work in developing the university's "sexual assault response commitment," which guarantees those on campus who feel they are a sexual assault victim, with help in seeking medical attention, counseling and a full investigation of each case.

"The plan and design of his work in this area is used and requested by many other departments and is recognized for its excellence," Cathcart noted in her letter of nomination. "Steve and his staff actively participate in monthly Sexual Assault Interagency Coalition and the Domestic Violence Task Force meetings, where their participation in the development and implementation of protocols, procedures and enhanced services for victims is considered a valued and irreplaceable asset to the community."

Rittereiser adds, "It was a real honor to be nominated by both Gail and Cheryl. It speaks to the strong relationship between law enforcement, the university and ASPEN to reduce sexual assault and provide essential services."

Rittereiser has worked for CWU public safety and police services since 1982. He was named to the chief's post in 1991.