Goshen police officer honored for compassion efforts

Nov. 20—GOSHEN — During its annual "A Place at the Table" fundraising dinner, First Light Mission awarded Assistant Chief of Police Shawn Turner the Compassionate Heart Award.

"In my 13-plus years, Shawn has worked to make things easier for all of us in keeping everyone safe," said Mindy Morehead, executive director of First Light Mission. "He shows compassion to all our guests whenever he is around and has gone above and beyond many times over the years."

Turner accepted the award, saying, "The only reason an award should be accepted is because I'm part of an administration that believes in compassion and empathy."

Turner has been dedicated to helping with any roadblocks First Light Mission has faced over the years, such as setting up wanted and warrant checks for guests. At times, when food has been shared with first responders, he will direct some to First Light Mission.

"I'm proud to know our administration has contributed to a cultural shift of showing more empathy and understanding, in part, because we highlight the good work of our officers internally and publicly when it's deserved," Turner said.

This is the second year First Light Mission has given out its Compassionate Heart Award, which goes to a police officer that First Light Mission believes has gone above and beyond. Last year, Sgt. Corey Mosher received the award.