On March 10, 2026, Chief Constable Dean Duthie recognized three individuals for selfless actions taken in the interest of public safety and community wellbeing. Two individuals received the Chief Constable’s Citizen’s Certificate of Recognition, while one was presented with the Chief Constable’s Citizen’s Award of Valour.
Mr. Amit Arya, a taxi driver, stepped in to prevent the person he was transporting from becoming the victim of a fraud. His choice to act stopped a person from losing over $12 -thousand dollars. For his alert care and compassion, Mr. Arya was presented with the Chief Constable’s Citizen’s Certificate of Recognition.
Mr. Michael Maloney recognized the risk posed by a driver he suspected of being impaired and acted. By safely following and documenting the other driver’s actions and taking action that assisted officers in apprehending the suspect, he prevented the impaired individual from potentially injuring themselves or someone else. For his decisive action that contributed to public safety, Mr. Maloney was presented with the Chief Constable’s Citizen’s Certificate of Recognition.
Mr. Steven Sankey, a BC Transit Supervisor, placed himself between passengers and a person acting violently and erratically while experiencing a mental health crisis. His action ensured that no passengers were harmed before they could be safely evacuated. For his selfless decision to shield others from potential harm, Mr. Sankey was presented with the Chief Constable’s Citizen’s Award of Valour.
The Saanich Police Department thanks all three individuals for their decisive actions that helped prevent harm and protect public safety. Their actions demonstrate how members of our community can play a vital role in keeping others safe.
Chief Constable Dean Duthie presents the Chief Constable’s Citizen’s Certificate of Recognition to Mr. Amit Arya for his alertness and care in preventing a member of the public from becoming the victim of fraud.
Chief Constable Dean Duthie presents the Chief Constable’s Citizen’s Certificate of Recognition to Mr. Michael Maloney for his decisive actions that contributed to public safety.
Chief Constable Dean Duthie presents the Chief Constable’s Citizen’s Award of Valour to Mr. Steven Sankey for placing himself between passengers and a person acting violently to prevent harm.