Sand Lake Police Officer Steven Brandow (left) is presented an award by Chief Ken Williams (right).

Sand Lake Police Officer Steven Brandow and intern Zachary Gregory were awarded the Village of Sand Lake Excellence Award and the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police Certificate of Recognition, Saturday, June 25, for quick thinking and action regarding an arson incident last spring.
Gerald Lee Krug set fire to an historic building located at 20 W. Lake Street in downtown Sand Lake, on March 14, 2010, at approximately 3:00 a.m. According to Sand Lake Police Chief Ken Williams, Brandow and Gregory’s keen observations and dedication to duty helped them to recognize Krug as a suspicious person at approximately 9:00 p.m. on March 13. As a result, they were able to continue observation of Krug later that night.

Intern Zachary Gregory receives his award from Chief Ken Williams

“Brandow and Gregory’s decision to conduct a foot patrol of the area that evening showed exemplary dedication to duty and led them directly to the scene of an arson fire set less than a minute prior to their arrival,” explained Williams. “They observed Krug walk from the area and attempt to avoid contact with them. Officer Brandow acted quickly to apprehend the suspect and assigned his partner, Intern Zachary Gregory, to extinguish the fire.”
Williams said that their ability to make quick decisions under great stress proved commendable.  “They are a true heroes,” said Williams. “Thanks to their actions on that night, they not only apprehended an arsonist, but saved an historic building and half of downtown Sand Lake.”