LMUD Troubleman Craig Lima, center, is honored by Susanville Mayor Rod DeBoer, left, and Susanville Chief of Police Tom Downing. Photos courtesy of LMUD.
Two IBEW 1245 members at the Lassen Municipal Utility District were recognized on Nov. 20 for their unique contributions to the community.
Receiving the honors were Craig Lima, a troubleman with LMUD and 36-year IBEW member, and Cindy Elliott, a fieldman with LMUD and 38-year IBEW member.
LMUD praised the employees for going “above and beyond their everyday job duties” and giving “selflessly to the community they serve.”
Craig Lima was presented with a certificate of appreciation from the Susanville City Council and the Susanville Police Department for his part in helping to apprehend three armed robbers.
On the afternoon of Oct. 18, three men armed with a handgun attempted to rob a local Susanville retailer, said Susanville Chief of Police, Tom Downing. Lima was in his LMUD service truck and listening to the scanner when the 911 call came in. At the same time a vehicle matching the description with three men passed Lima, who turned his truck around and gave pursuit.
He called 911 and informed dispatch that he was following the suspects, giving details about their location. According to Chief Downing, it was Lima’s quick thinking that led the police to the suspects.
“If it hadn’t been for Craig, I believe these guys would have gotten away—we have him to thank,” Downing said. The suspects were arrested and have since pleaded guilty to armed robbery.
Lima was presented with a certificate that reads:
LMUD Fieldman Cindy Elliott, left, receives honor from Lt. Scott Head of the Susanville Volunteer Fire Department.
“In recognition of your outstanding performance in assisting the Police Department in locating the suspects who committed the robbery on October, 18, 2013 at a local retailer. We, the City Council of the City of Susanville, offer our sincere thanks for your quick thinking and responsible action for the benefit of public safety.”
Elliott received the honor of Susanville Volunteer Firefighter of the Year from the Veterans of Foreign Wars/American Legion – Thomas Tucker Post 204. Each year the organization honors local law enforcement and first responders for their service to the City of Susanville.
Elliott was chosen for her exceptional service to the citizens of Susanville. Cindy, who has been a volunteer firefighter for the past 8 years, said she was humbled by the award.
“It’s such a wonderful honor. I was very surprised by the award,” Elliott said. “I feel the whole fire department shares this with me.”