Newton Police Chief recognized with international award

Newton Police Chief Rob Burdess has been selected for the International Association of Chief of Police 40 Under 40 Award. The award is given annually to law enforcement professionals from around the world under the age of 40 who demonstrate strong values and commitment to he law enforcement field.

According to the IACP, the winners began an career in law enforcement to protect people, especially those who cannot protect themselves. They emit positivity, genuine concern and compassion despite the many traumatic experiences they may have faced. Those selected lead by example by providing training and mentors sip for others, serving as role models, development more effective methodologies for their departments and take advantage of every opportunity to build up those around them.

“I am honored and humbled by this award and believe it reflects greatly on my faith and the positive influence my family, teachers, coaches, pastors and law enforcement colleagues have had on my life and career,” Burdess said. “The officers and staff of the Newton Police Department perform an extraordinary service and without their commitment to the community and department this recognition would not be possible and I am truly blessed to serve with such a dedicated team.”

A Colfax native, Burdess has a bachelor’s and master’s degree in public administration. He started his career in law enforcement in 1997, serving two years with the University of Iowa Police Department before joining the NPD in 1999.

While at the department, Burdess served as a detective and patrol officer along with working as the DARE coordinator, commander of the SWAT team, traffic safety coordinator, field trainer officer, K-9 instructor and president of the Newton Police Association. Since becoming chief, he has implemented the narcotics K-9 program, a police motorcycle program and led the department in rewriting its 400-page policy manual. In the community, he helped organize the Jasper County Crime Stoppers and worked to create the Jasper County Substance Abuse Coalition.

“Chief Rob Burdess is without a doubt deserving of this recognition and award,” Newton Mayor Mike Hansen said.

A 40 Under 40 Award luncheon for the recipients will take place in October at the IACP Annual Conference and Exposition in Philadelphia. Those selected will also be profiled in the September issue of Police Chief magazine.

The International Association of Chiefs of Police is a professional association for law enforcement worldwide. For more than 120 years, the IACP has been launching internationally acclaimed programs, speaking on behalf of law enforcement, conducting groundbreaking research and providing exemplary programs and services to members across the globe.

Contact Jamee A. Pierson at 641-792-3121 ext. 6534
or jpierson@newtondailynews.com