02/11/2026
The Powder Springs Police Department would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Gotcha Covered Blankets Gala for inviting us to this year’s event. We are honored to be included and grateful for the positive impact your organization continues to make in our community.
This year, our department is proud to have two nominees for the Heartfelt Hero Award—an award that recognizes acts of kindness shown to the public while on duty.
Nominee: Officer Chris Bass
Nominated by Ms. Pruitt's family
On March 29, 2025, Officer Bass responded to assist an elderly female, Ms. Pruitt, who had become lost and confused while attempting to visit her brother. With limited information available, Officer Bass demonstrated outstanding patience, compassion, and problem-solving.
He used what little information Ms. Pruitt could recall to contact Prattville, Alabama Police, who recognized her name from previous encounters. Through this connection, Officer Bass located her family and ensured they were on the way—remaining with Ms. Pruitt for over 30 minutes until they arrived.
Ms. Pruitt’s family later reached out to express their gratitude for the kindness, professionalism, and care that Officer Bass displayed during a vulnerable moment.
Thank you, Officer Bass, for going above and beyond to ensure Ms. Pruitt was reunited safely with her family. Your compassion and calm presence truly made a difference.
Nominee: Lieutenant Armando Cipriano
Nominated by Sgt. Meade
On April 22, 2025, at approximately 23:00 hours, an elderly woman came to the Powder Springs Police Department seeking help. Showing signs of early Alzheimer’s and unable to find her way home, she asked for a Spanish-speaking officer.
Lieutenant Cipriano met with her, contacted her husband, and discovered she had become lost while trying to return home to Buford, Georgia. Rather than ending his shift, Lt. Cipriano personally ensured her safety, escorting her all the way home and reuniting her with her family.
Sgt. Meade highlighted Lt. Cipriano’s selflessness, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the community—qualities that reflect the highest standards of law enforcement service.
Thank you, Lt. Cipriano, for your commitment, leadership, and heartfelt care for those we serve.
We are incredibly proud of both nominees and grateful to the Gotcha Covered Blankets Gala for recognizing officers who continue to embody compassion, service, and humanity in their daily work.
