Optimist Club Honors Officers with Respect for Law Award

The Optimist Club of Alexandria has honored three Alexandria law enforcement officers with the Respect for Law Award.

The awards were announced at an Oct. 24 luncheon at the Belle Haven Country Club. Officer Marcus Downey of the Alexandria Police Department and deputies Mark Jessup and Brian Bell with the Alexandria Sheriff's Office were recognized for their outstanding service, in particular for their efforts for young people.

Downey, a member of the patrol operations bureau, has worked for the past four years to revitalize the Alexandria Police Youth Camp. In addition to spending significant time at the camp during summers, working with underprivileged children, he now serves on the camp's board and also works closely with school resources officers and Alexandria City Public Schools to identify young people who could most benefit from time at the camp.

Downey also ensures that the camp is well-maintained and is on its capital improvement committee, which oversees major upgrades.

Jessup, who serves in the judicial and special operations bureau as the gang deputy, has been a mentor to students at Charles Barrett Elementary School for the past three years. As the first member of the sheriff's office to volunteer as a school mentor, he meets weekly with his mentee to encourage positive choices, high self-esteem and academic achievement.

Jessup said he hopes his encouragement and support will help the students he mentors to achieve their full potential, effectively solve problems, and grow to be successful adults.

Bell, who is assigned to the Alexandria Detention Center, was recognized as a committed volunteer at East of Anacostia, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of youth and children. Bell spends much of his personal time mentoring young people who face significant challenges in their daily life by supporting their academic progress, supervising their completion of homework and school assignments and organizing educational outings, like trips to museums and historic sites.

The Optimist Club of Alexandria is now in its 66th year. Past president Carolyn Miller is chairwoman of the club's Respect for Law program and annual awards.