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ALBANY, GA --
The Exchange Club of Albany recognized local law enforcers during the 2011 Officers of the Year award ceremony.

Albany Police Chief John Proctor recognized Corporal Arthur Tyler, who serves as an investigator with the robbery and homicide division. In 2011, he led seven homicide cases and four involved the arrest of multiple gang members.

" I've been employed in law enforcement for approximately twelve years and being awarded the officer of the year for 2011, it ranks at the top of my awards list in my career," said Tyler.

In October of 2011, he responded to an armed robbery call at Consolidated Loan Company in which he lost his fellow co-worker and friend, officer Terry Lewis Flemming. He was also very touched by the moment of silence for the fallen officer.

The Dougherty County Sheriff's Office did something a bit different. Instead of choosing a deputy, officials chose Detention Officer James Collier who works in the jail.

“By me only being here for less than two years to receive an award like this; it’s an honor and this right here will go on from now until the rest of my life,” said Collier.

Corporal Robert Richards, a 14 year law enforcement veteran and with the Dougherty County Police Department since 2005, was selected by Chief Don Cheeks.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources selected Ranger First Class Bob Holle. Captain Keith Houston was selected from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.