A retired Abbotsford Police staff sergeant will receive an honorary degree from the Justice Institute of BC (JIBC) on June 10.
Michael Novakowski will be one of two recipients of the doctor of laws degree during the JIBC spring convocation. The other recipient is Sharon Sutherland of Mediate BC.
Novakowski, who retired in April from the Abbotsford Police Department, is being recognized for his promotion of legal education for police and for his anti-gang and youth initiatives.
“Michael Novakowski has not only served the community as a police officer with distinction, he has exemplified the lifelong learner, earning a master of laws degree and then sharing his knowledge with others,” said Dr. Michel Tarko, JIBC president and CEO.
“His passion for the law has led to his becoming a legal specialist on police powers, serving as an instructor at JIBC, the University of the Fraser Valley, and to local police agencies.”
RELATED: Sgt. Mike Novakowski of the Abbotsford Police helps youth make good decisions
Novakowski created a bi-monthly newsletter, “In Service: 10-8,” distributed to more than 1,500 people and organizations across Canada, which discusses court cases on policing issues and powers.
He also serves as the case law editor for policing publication BlueLine Magazine.
In addition to his law degree from Osgoode Hall Law School at York University, specializing in criminal law and procedure, he earned a master of arts in leadership and training from Royal Roads University.
During his more than 30 years in policing, Novakowski’s many contributions to the community included developing creative and engaging ways to guide youth towards making good choices and away from the gang life.
For this work, he was recognized with one of the three B.C. Meritorious Service Awards he received during his career.
Other honours he has received include being invested as a Member of the Order of Merit for Police Forces in Canada by the Governor General for his contributions to policing.
The convocation ceremony will be held virtually on June 10.
RELATED: Accolades for Abbotsford Police Sgt. Mike Novakowski