Constable Marc Lesage

Constable Marc Lesage was named today as Anishinabek Police Service (Garden River Detachment) Officer of the Year.

Constable Lesage was one of four area officers recognized at a luncheon organized by the Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce.

Other recipients were:

Constable Jason Rains Constable Christian Thibodeau Constable Monique Baker

Here's what they said today about Constable Lesage:

********************** (As prepared by the Anishinabek Police Service, and presented by Inspector Stefan Naylor)

Constable Marc Lesage

In selecting the officer from our detachment that rightfully fulfills the criteria for this prestigious award, our police service is proud to announce that Constable Marc Lesage is once again our Officer of the Year.

This will be Constable Lesage’s third time receiving this award and I can simply sum this up as "well deserved."

Constable Lesage continues to maintain a high standard of performance and dedication in the day-to-day-duties as a police officer.

His exceptional work ethics and commitment to his career has made him a valuable asset, not only to the Garden River Detachment, but also to our overall police service.

Marc has gained the respect and praise for his work and efforts from our neighboring police services, crown attorneys, local judges and the Garden River First Nation Community.

The letters of appreciation that continue to pour into our office clearly echoes the exceptional efforts put forth by Marc.

Recently, Constable Lesage was highly commended by one of our judges for his proficiency on a DNA warrant that was quite complex and intricate in nature.

The incident involved the sexual assault of a young female band member.

The investigation required DNA evidence to be recovered from the crime scene in relation to this.

Constable Lesage, who was off-duty at the time, did not hesitate to attend and take over the investigation, which was sensitive in nature, as the victim involved was a close relative of an associate.

This detailed and meticulous warrant was highly commended by the judge who took the time to leave his chambers and speak with me, his supervisor, to acknowledge Marc’s efforts.

As a result of the investigation, an arrest was effected and charges were laid.

Constable Lesage respectfully upholds the Mission Statement of the Anishinabek Police in not just providing community-based policing, but taking that extra step by assisting and inspiring young students pursuing the policing profession from the local high schools, colleges and universities with on-going ride-alongs.

It is not uncommon to see Marc being accompanied by one of these students and spending anywhere from two to three hours to an entire 10 hour shift riding along with him on duty.

To undertake such a task, that involves the resolve of endless and repetitive questions attributes to the exceptional patience that Marc possesses.

These current students, and some that have gone on to become police officers continue to keep in contact with Marc to seek his guidance and on-going support.

Although Marc is very humble [and] he often hesitates to acknowledge his role in their achievements, I know that he personally takes great pride in seeing a new officer join our profession.

Marc has been with our Service since August 2001 after serving two years with the St. Thomas Police Service.

In the short time that Marc has policed in Garden River, he has certainly developed a unique rapport with all members within our community.

Although Marc’s stature may personify an image of intimidation, at 6'4" and holding at 299 pounds, his friendly and outgoing demeanor has gained their trust and respect.

Marc never ceases to impress his fellow officers with the great balance he has in his home life and workplace.

Much of that credit is attributed to his loving and supporting wife, Stacey, who often sees Marc come home after a ten-hour shift, exchange a quick hello, only to see him off and running back to work.

Marc and Stacey have two sons, ages 3, and 3 months.

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