Michael Novakowski was recognized for his promotion of legal education for police and his anti-gang and youth initiatives over his more than 30 years in policing.
Mr. Novakowski retired in 2021 from the Abbotsford Police Department with the rank of staff sergeant. He not only served as a police officer with distinction, he has exemplified the lifelong learner, earning a Master of Laws degree and then sharing his knowledge with others. His passion for the law has led to his becoming a specialist on the legal powers of police, serving as an instructor at JIBC, the University of the Fraser Valley, and to local police agencies.
He created a bi-monthly newsletter, “In Service: 10-8,” distributed to more than 1,500 people and organizations across Canada, which discusses court cases on policing issues and powers. He also serves as the Case Law Editor for policing publication BlueLine Magazine. In addition to his law degree from Osgoode Hall Law School at York University, he earned a Master of Arts in leadership and training from Royal Roads University.
During his policing career, Mr. Novakowski’s many contributions to the community included developing creative and engaging ways to guide youth towards making good choices and away from the gang life. For this work he was recognized with one of the three B.C. Meritorious Service Awards he received during his career. Other honours he has received include being invested as a Member of the Order of Merit for Police Forces in Canada by the Governor General for his contributions to policing.