It took a special request from his boss to get him to the black tie event, but for Officer Chris Peart it was the command performance of a lifetime.

At the recent Brentwood Police Officers Ball at the Wedgewood Wedding and Banquet Center in Brentwood, Peart was named by his fellow police officers as the department’s inaugural Officer of the Year.

“When I got the invitation (to the ball), I wasn’t planning to go,” said Peart. “But then I got called into my boss’s office and he said I had to be there because I was getting the award. He said he was sorry to tell me that way, but he had to be sure I was going to be there.”

Peart, who serves as school resource officer at Liberty High, has been with the city’s PD since 2005, and according to Brentwood Chief of Police Mark Evenson, represents the true spirit of the award. “Chris is not only a wonderful police officer, but he’s also a fantastic human being,” said Evenson. “He’s one of those people who doesn’t just wear the uniform; he goes above and beyond what’s required of his job.”

Candidates for the award are nominated based on a variety of criteria, including dedication, passion for the job, core values and productivity. “Basically, the award is given to the officer that best exemplifies what the job is all about,” said Evenson. “All of the department personnel had an opportunity to submit a nominee if they wanted, and then we had a review committee that made the final decision.

“It’s the first year we have done this. We have different types of recognition and awards, letters of appreciation and distinguished medals, but this is our first Officer of the Year award, and it’s a very nice thing.”

But for the 30-year-old Peart – a criminal justice graduate from Sacramento State – being recognized by his fellow officers is the greatest honor of all. “Obviously being honored by your peers is the best,” said Peart. “Especially given the caliber of men and women we have in the department. I love doing what I do, being out in the community and helping people. I am truly, truly honored.”

The black-tie awards ceremony was highlighted by dinner and dancing. “It was a nice social evening; a good time,” said Peart, who was presented with a plaque at the event. “For me it was a great night; something I’ll remember my entire career.”