Police Officer Heaton Honored for Public Service

Corrales Police officer Walter Heaton was presented with VFW Post 5432’s Law Enforcement Public Service Award at the Corrales Village Council meeting on Feb. 28.

Heaton, who has been with the Corrales Police Department since 1986, was nominated for the award by Police Chief Vic Mangiacapra.

“Officer Heaton has proven himself to be instrumental in strengthening community-police relationships by consistently interacting with the public in a positive manner,” Mangiacapra wrote in his letter nominating Heaton. “Officer Heaton unfailingly assists with community outreach efforts, such as Cops and Crayons school supply drive, Books and Badges student reading program and Neighborhood Watch crime prevention initiative. Year-after-year Officer Heaton has been a steady presence at special events throughout the Village, including Harvest Festival, the Fourth of July Parade, Tractor Show and Starlight Parade.”

In addition to his daily patrol duties, Heaton’s has also taught D.A.R.E. classes to elementary school students for 30 years, as well as Gang Resistance Education and Training (G.R.E.A.T.) courses, according to Mangiacapra’s letter. 

The chief said that Heaton has received 31 letters of commendation/appreciation and countless informal thanks for his service to the community.