Belen Police Recognize Officers, Boost Department Morale and Community Ties

On December 11, officers, civilian staff and spouses gathered at Fat Sat’s Bar and Grill in Belen for the second annual Policeman’s Ball, an evening of awards, dinner and dancing that doubled as a public demonstration of departmental cohesion. Interim Police Chief Adam Keck said he was proud of the department and the officers for their dedication and passion for helping the community every single day.

Officer Manuel Monte received the Outstanding Community Commitment award for a pattern of volunteerism at county events. Deputy Chief Mario Vallejos noted the range of activity in the area and Monte’s willingness to step up. “We have a lot going on in Valencia County, like Special Olympics, the DWI Council and when there’s an event happening, last minute, Monte will stand up and volunteer to do it,” Vallejos said. “To be honest with you, that’s what we need, team work.”

Officer Dominic Duran was named Most Improved Officer after what Vallejos described as measurable self improvement and renewed work ethic. “He has had his difficulties ... but his self-dedication and work ethic that has got him to where he is today,” Vallejos said. “It doesn’t matter how many times I have him in my office, telling him this and that ... he accepts all the responsibility, and we can all learn from him.”

Keck announced Detective Kyana Garcia as Officer of the Year, citing her assistance on violent crime investigations and support for fellow officers. “I don’t think he voted, but she has done great in detectives. She’s stepped up with violent crimes, and anytime you guys holler, she is right there to help,” Keck said. Sgt. Jason Skopek received the Leadership Award with Keck describing him as “a good leader” who guides vision into actionable plans. “A good leader is someone who has a vision and imparts that vision to where it helps the department and gets people to process that plan,” Keck said.

For local residents, the ceremony signals a department focused on community engagement and internal recognition that can support retention and public trust. The presence of an interim chief highlights a period of administrative transition, making morale building and clear leadership more consequential for day to day policing. Vallejos closed with a reminder about boundaries and solidarity, urging staff to value their roles while remembering they are a “work family” who are there for one another. Such public affirmations of teamwork matter for response capacity at community events and for sustaining the relationships that underlie neighborhood safety.