Parsons Police Officers Honored for Uncommon Valor at Conference

On April 16, 2025, several members of the Parsons Police Department were honored at the Annual Kansas Association of Chiefs of Police (KACP) Spring Conference held in Mulvane, Kansas. The department was recognized alongside agents from the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) with the prestigious Bronze Unit Citation for Uncommon Valor.

This honor acknowledges the outstanding efforts and hundreds of hours of investigative work contributed by the officers in dismantling a significant drug trafficking operation in Southeast Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma. The award is a testament to the interagency collaboration and dedication it took to bring this complex case to fruition.

The investigation began locally in January 2023 and gained traction in June 2023 when Parsons Police Detective Brice Dickens initiated an investigation based on citizen reports of suspected drug activity. Acting on these community tips, Detective Dickens methodically developed leads that connected local drug activity to a much larger criminal enterprise.

Recognizing the scope and complexity of the case, Detective Dickens coordinated with agents from the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. Through a partnership with the KBI and later the DEA and the Labette County Sheriff's Office, the investigation evolved into a major operation targeting a sizable drug trafficking ring operating in the Parsons area and beyond. This joint effort ultimately led to multiple federal indictments for drug trafficking-an outcome that would not have been possible without seamless collaboration and persistence across all agencies involved.

"This was a textbook example of what a motivated law enforcement agency can achieve when local, state, and federal agencies come together to protect our communities," said Parsons Police Chief Robert Spinks. "Detective Dickens' initiative and leadership were critical to bringing this case to the level of federal prosecution."

Deputy Chief Dennis Dodd echoed these sentiments, adding, "This case reflects the professionalism, commitment, and tireless work ethic of our investigations division. They represented the Parsons Police Department with distinction and purpose."

Attending the KACP conference to accept the Bronze Unit Citation on behalf of the Parsons Police Department were Lieutenant Detective Sherri McGuire, Sergeant Detective Brice Dickens, Sergeant Detective Tony Adamson and Sergeant Detective Timothy Gilliland. Members of the KBI and the DEA were also present to accept awards on their agencies behalf. 

Chief Spinks and Deputy Chief Dodd were also present to show their support and celebrate the unit's achievements.

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