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University Police Officer Receives ABC Award

Eric Reichel, an officer with the University Police, received an award from the California Alcohol and Beverage Control on Aug. 29 recognizing his service to the ABC - funded Chico Police alcohol prevention program.

In the grant proposal for the 2001 - 2002 project, according to Sergeant Linda Dye, Special Operations, the Chico Police Department had requested funds for a CSU, Chico police officer to work alongside Chico Police officers in efforts to curb alcohol abuse among the student population. Although the position wasn't funded, President Manuel Esteban agreed to free an officer to work alongside the CPD.

Reichel, with University Police since January 2000, teamed with officer Todd Lopez to work directly with students through outreach efforts, in party situations, and with local business licensing. The two officers made several cases against local business.

"Eric was a good representative of both the university as a student and the University Police. He was studying for his master's degree at the same time he was working as a peace officer," said his partner, Lopez. "He was a hard worker who brought enthusiasm and drive with him. He liked to work, and he didn't care if it was out front or behind the scenes. We accomplished a lot together. I'll miss him."

Reichel will return to his work with the University Police as a gang officer and will be replaced on the ABC team by University Police officer Dave Heaphy for the coming year.

Officer Lopez, Sergeant Dye, and Officer Cheryl Howard, Community Service, also received awards from the ABC. The presentations were made at a news conference where Robin Crabb of the ABC presented a $125,000 check to acting police chief Mike Efford and CSU, Chico Chief Leslie Deniz to continue the project.