NASBLA announces the 2023 Western Region Officer of the Year
Deputy Charles Trescher, of the Mohave County Sheriff's Office (MCSO), has been named the NASBLA Western Region Officer of the Year for 2023.
Deputy Trescher has been part of the Mohave County Sheriff's Office Division of Boating Safety and the Dive Rescue and Recovery Team since 2020. He serves the boating communities of Lake Havasu, Lake Mead, and the Colorado River, some of the busiest inland bodies of water in the nation.
Deputy Trescher's extensive qualifications include serving as a Patrol Boat Operator, a Rescue Diver, and a Dive Team Leader, among other certifications. His wealth of knowledge and expertise make him a trusted source of guidance and advice for fellow deputies within the Division. Deputy Trescher consistently steps up and takes the lead when presented with the opportunity to do so, displaying a strong commitment to his role. He recently acquired certification in conducting visual inspections on the inside of scuba tanks, allowing for enhanced safety and stability of the dive team's equipment. Recognized for his exceptional diving abilities by other teams and agencies in the area, Deputy Trescher brings confidence, innovative ideas, and remarkable ability to the Dive Team.
Deputy Trescher is a proactive problem-solver who always seeks solutions rather than dwelling on obstacles. He excels in maintaining the aging patrol watercraft fleet, tirelessly fixing various items on the patrol boats to save the department significant costs. Additionally, Deputy Trescher has played a crucial role in replacing outdated light bars, siren systems, batteries, and addressing multiple other equipment-related issues. Thanks to his diligent efforts and pride in the patrol fleet, the Mohave County Sheriff's Office has saved thousands of dollars.
In addition to his exemplary work within the department, Deputy Trescher actively participates in community events, using every opportunity to educate the public about boating and water safety. He demonstrates a positive and communicative approach during his daily patrols, fostering a culture of safety and awareness among the boating public.
Deputy Trescher's remarkable dedication to his duty was most evident during a recent water-related mission and rescue. On Labor Day Weekend of 2022, a severe storm on Lake Havasu led to the capsizing of a rental pontoon. Responding swiftly, Deputy Trescher arrived at the scene as the first responder. Without hesitation, he removed his duty belt and entered the water, discovering that a female child was trapped beneath the overturned boat. Deputy Trescher, with the assistance of others on shore, managed to lift the boat, enabling an MCSO rescue diver to locate the trapped victim. Despite the chaotic situation, Deputy Trescher single-handedly held the boat up to ensure the safety of the rescue diver until the victim was safely recovered.
Overall, Deputy Trescher is an invaluable asset to the Mohave County Sheriff's Office. His unwavering commitment and immense pride in his position contribute to the safety of the waterways in Mohave County, San Bernardino County, and Clark County. Deputy Trescher's dedication sets a remarkable example for his peers and underscores his deserving recognition as the 2023 Western Region Officer of the Year. Congratulations, Deputy Charles Trescher!
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First presented in 2000, the Marvin “Butch” Potts Memorial Award, known as the Boating Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award, is presented annually to the boating law enforcement officer who has made outstanding contributions to the field of boating law enforcement. The award program consists of three levels: state, regional and national.
The National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) is a national nonprofit, 501(c)3 organization that works to develop public policy for recreational boating safety. NASBLA represents the recreational boating authorities of all 50 states and the U.S. territories. We offer a variety of resources, including training, model acts, education standards, publications and more. Through a national network of thousands of professional educators, law enforcement officers and volunteers, we affect the lives of nearly 85 million American boaters.