Congratulations to the 2023 Law Enforcement Officer Distinguished Service Award Recipients
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
BATON ROUGE, LA—Lieutenant James Leubner of Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Financial Crimes Division and Major Willie Stewart, Jr., of the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff's Property Crimes Division receive 2023 Law Enforcement Officer Distinguished Service Awards.
"Lieutenant James Leubner's exceptional dedication, expertise and unwavering commitment to upholding the law and ensuring the safety of our community make him an outstanding candidate for this honor. Lieutenant Leubner's contributions to law enforcement in Calcasieu Parish have been exemplary. His meticulous investigative skills, tireless work ethic and remarkable problem-solving abilities have consistently yielded successful outcomes in complex cases. Through his outstanding leadership, he has played a pivotal role in combating financial crimes, especially those affecting the banking sector," said Jennifer L. Pugh of First Federal Bank of Louisiana.
"The Baton Rouge Area Bank Security Association would like to honor Major Willie Stewart, Jr. He is the chief of the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Property Crimes Division, graduate of the FBI-Law Enforcement Executive Development Association Trilogy Program and National Command and Staff College #008. Major Stewart is an active participant in the Baton Rouge Area Bank Security Association. We can count on his contributions at every meeting. Early in 2023, Major Stewart was a huge voice for local law enforcement and the financial institutions to advocate alongside the LBA on House Bill 94—which related to theft and criminal access of ATMs. The bill was signed into law by the governor on June 8, 2023, to become Act 218 effective Aug. 1, 2023. We appreciate the major and want to recognize him for his service to Louisiana," said Dana Yarbrough of Investar Bank.
“Louisiana banks are fortunate to work with highly professional law enforcement officials as we all work to end financial crimes. The working relationship between the bankers and all levels of law enforcement is admirable. We appreciate what the bank security officers do in our banks and we thank the law enforcement officials for their support,” said LBA CEO Ginger Laurent.
Each year, LBA recognizes outstanding law enforcement officers who assist banks with the investigation of financial crimes. The award recipients are nominated by bankers from across the state.
About LBA: Founded in 1900, the Louisiana Bankers Association provides Louisiana’s bankers with top-quality professional development, revenue-enhancing products and services, governmental relations and public advocacy. For more information, go to www.lba.org.
Award Presentation Photos
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Lieutenant James Leubner
Major Willie Stewart, Jr.
(above, middle) Lt. James Leubner of Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Financial Crimes Division receives the 2023 Law Enforcement Award. Pictured are (remaining, from right) Jennifer Pugh of First Federal Bank of Louisiana who nominated him and LBA CEO Ginger Laurent.
(above, middle) Major Willie Stewart, Jr., of the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Property Crimes Division receives a 2023 Law Enforcement Award at the Thursday luncheon. Also pictured are (remaining, from left) Dana Yarbrough of Investar Bank and Sherry Palmer of Hancock Whitney Bank, both who nominated Major Stewart on behalf of the Baton Rouge Area Bank Security Association.
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