Senior Officer James Allred of the Eustis Police Department has been chosen to receive the Chief’s Award. He will officially receive the honor on September 18, during the Eustis City Commission meeting.

The award comes following a recommendation from Corporal William Starling, Supervisor of the School Resource Unit, who commended Officer Allred for his dedication, professionalism and service.

“Officer Allred has been an invaluable asset as a member of the SRO Unit,” Corporal Starling says. “He consistently goes above and beyond to support his colleagues and enhance the unit’s overall effectiveness. Officer Allred is always available to assist other SROs with their responsibilities and answer any questions. His guidance and support have been instrumental in fostering a cohesive and high-performing unit.”

Cpl. Starling highlighted Officer Allred’s mentorship, both to peers and to students.

“Officer Allred is not only a resource for his peers but also a positive role model and mentor for the students he serves,” he says. “I have personally witnessed his genuine efforts to connect with students, guiding and supporting them to make a meaningful difference in their lives.”

He recalled one particular act of compassion: “One particularly impactful example of his dedication occurred during the holiday season. Officer Allred noticed a young lady from his school who was in need and ensured she was added to the Shop with a Cop program to assist her and her infant son during Christmas. His compassion didn’t stop there. Following the event, Officer Allred reached out to me, expressing his desire to provide even more assistance for the student. His initiative led to the identification of additional resources, which brought further support and relief to this young mother and her child.”

Officer Allred also contributes outside the classroom.

“Officer Allred has recently taken the initiative to volunteer his time coaching the Eustis High School football team as a linebackers coach, while also assisting the school’s weightlifting team with their training. Officer Allred’s ability to build these connections and go above and beyond to support his students speaks volumes about his character,” Cpl. Starling wrote.

The letter further praised his training leadership saying, “Drawing on his military and SWAT experience, he delivers high-quality, practical training to the SRO Unit and the agency. His training sessions are both insightful and impactful, equipping officers with the knowledge and skills they need to perform at the highest level. Officer Allred consistently offers and provides additional training opportunities during school breaks, ensuring that the SRO Unit remains prepared and effective year-round.”

Cpl. Starling also noted Officer Allred’s contributions to regional training. “Additionally, Officer Allred volunteers to assist the Lake County Sheriff’s Office with implementing their two-week SRO training program, sharing his expertise to enhance the skills of officers across the region.”

Beyond his SRO duties, Officer Allred serves with the department’s Honor Guard.

“He consistently volunteers for events, proudly representing our department and embodying the values we strive to uphold,” Cpl. Starling wrote. “Officer Allred’s commitment to excellence, dedication to his colleagues, and unwavering service to the community embody the qualities that define an exceptional law enforcement officer.”