Cpl. Emanuel Ayala / Photo courtesy Takoma Park Police Department
Corporal Emanuel Ayala has been named the 2024 Takoma Park Police Officer of the Year.
According to a release from the Takoma Park Police Department (TPPD), Ayala’s “calm demeanor and sound decision-making have made him a trusted leader among his peers and a reassuring presence for the community.”
Ayala, sworn-in in 2021, did work on a criminal investigation last year that resulted in the apprehension of suspects in a major operation — “His persistence, investigative skill, and attention to detail were instrumental in bringing the case to a successful resolution.”
In addition to naming the Officer of the Year, Takoma Park Police Chief Antonio DeVaul also recognized two Investigators of the Year: Detective Cpl. Victor Argueta and Detective Private First Class Janelle Lane.
Argueta and Lane balanced a heavy load of criminal investigations while also doing time-consuming applicant background investigations, amid staffing shortages and increased caseloads, according to TPPD.
In 2024, Argueta successfully closed 15 major criminal cases including robberies, carjackings, assaults, and child abuse.
Lane managed sensitive investigations of sexual assault, rape, and violent crimes — “many of which required not only investigative precision but also deep compassion and professionalism.” During this time, she also earned her master’s degree.
The 2024 Civilian of the Year is Demetrice White, who plays a behind-the-scenes role for the police department managing responsibilities like payroll processing, procurement, front desk support, and coordination of school crossing guards.
“Ms. White is not only the backbone of many of our internal operations—she is also a trusted and respected colleague whose work directly impacts the morale and effectiveness of our entire department,” per the release.
