P.O. Erik Melendez is a dedicated officer who serves both the community and his colleagues with distinction. Currently the Vice President of the Hispanic Police Officers Association, his commitment extends far beyond his official duties.
The individual who nominated him, choosing to remain anonymous, praised Officer Melendez’s unwavering dedication: “Officer Melendez’s dedication is shown through his many contributions to the various community organizations he is part of. Throughout his career, he has always made sure to stay involved with the youth through his regular school/classroom visits at various CMSD schools and has recently ‘adopted’ the PreK and Kindergarten classrooms at Scranton Elementary, where he interacts with the children by reading to them, giving safety talks, and organizing holiday-inspired activities. If there is a CPD community event, it is likely you’ll see Erik present; working as ‘Santa’s Helper’ for the annual Golden Ticket Christmas Party, Coffee with a Cop (in various districts), Safety Fairs, etc.”
Further highlighting his quiet support, the nominator added, “Erik’s dedication to his fellow co-workers typically goes unseen and unnoticed because he is the quiet line of support, done out of respect for the officer’s privacy. He is the most humble person I have ever met and will never believe he is deserving of such recognition. But I can say, without a doubt, he is the bridge that connects the citizens and community of Cleveland with the Cleveland Division of Police.”
Thanks to his caring nature and active involvement in community service, the Cleveland Police Foundation is honored to name P.O. Erik Melendez as its Police Officer of the Month for April 2024.
– Bob Guttu, Cleveland Police Foundation
Nominated Anonymously