Police Department Members Recognized for Service and Heroism

Published on May 28, 2026

West Palm Beach Police Department Members Recognized for Service and Heroism

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (May 28, 2026) — Three members of the West Palm Beach Police Department were honored May 27 at the First Responders Appreciation Foundation Law Enforcement Appreciation Luncheon for their service, professionalism, and commitment to public safety.

Assistant Chief Anthony “Tony” Spatara received the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of more than 30 years of service in law enforcement. A second-generation West Palm Beach police officer, Spatara has dedicated his career to serving the community.

Officer Kristie Petravich received the K9 Achievement Award for her actions during a series of violent crimes in 2025. Petravich and her K9 partner, Medal, located and apprehended a violent offender during an active crime spree, helping prevent additional victims.

Emergency Communications Operator Andrea Baptiste was named Emergency Communications Officer of the Year for her role during a highly complex and emotionally charged incident. Her actions contributed to a peaceful resolution and helped prevent harm to the subject, responding officers, and the public.

“These awards reflect the professionalism, dedication, and commitment to service our personnel demonstrate every day,” said West Palm Beach Police Chief Tony Araujo. “We are proud to see these members recognized by the First Responders Appreciation Foundation for the positive impact they continue to make in our community. Their efforts, along with the work of our sworn officers and professional staff across the department, strengthen public trust and reflect the values we uphold as an agency.”

The First Responders Appreciation Foundation is a community-based organization dedicated to recognizing the service and sacrifices of law enforcement professionals throughout Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, and Indian River counties.

Through its annual awards program, the foundation honors outstanding achievements by sworn and civilian personnel serving in local, county, and state law enforcement agencies. The organization also provides scholarships to help offset the cost of attending a police academy.

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Rachel Leitão

Public Information Officer

pdpio@wpb.org