From the Media Release:

Deputy Harrison “Dan” Manhart, a 9-year Orange County Sheriff’s veteran, will be honored by the City Council tonight as San Juan Capistrano’s 2007 Deputy of the Year.

Manhart has served San Juan Capistrano since his assignment to South Operations/Patrol in June of 2005.  His professionalism, motivation and commitment to the city has earned him the respect of his peers, supervisors and community members, said Lt. Mike Betzler, chief of police services.

Manhart serves as a Field Training Officer and patrol deputy. He also serves on the department’s Critical Incident Response Team, a field-based team of highly trained deputies versed in the use of high-powered assault weapons.  Manhart has played a major role in helping to reduce crime in town. His arrest statistics basically tell the story and rank him as a “Top Gun” deputy in San Juan Capistrano, Betzler said.

In the past year, he was responsible for 133 total arrests – 48 were for felonies. In the last couple of years, Manhart has also been instrumental in working to take drunk drivers off of city streets. Mothers Against Drunk Drivers (MADD) will recognize him again with its “Deuce Award” for his efforts to combat driving under the influence in San Juan Capistrano. 

Manhart has spent hours immersing himself into the community to become familiar with all aspects of the city, patrol areas and residents and business owners. His vast network has allowed him to keep a watchful eye on all types of activities that occur in San Juan Capistrano.

Betzler said that Manhart’s professionalism and dedication to the community is outstanding.