ASOTIN COUNTY, WA — Asotin County Undersheriff Blake Richards graduated from the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission’s Law Enforcement Academy in Spokane, earning three of the four awards presented to Class 936 graduates.

Richards received the Valedictorian Award for highest academic achievement, the Top Recruit Award for overall excellence in academics and practical skills, and the Most Desired Partner Award, a peer-selected honor recognizing leadership, professionalism, teamwork, and dependability.

Richards has served with the Asotin County Sheriff’s Office for more than four years. According to Sheriff John Hilderbrand, the honors reflect the leadership and dedication he has demonstrated throughout his career.

“Blake has served the citizens of Asotin County for more than four years, and during that time he has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership, sound judgment, and an unwavering commitment to public service,” Hilderbrand said. “These awards reflect exactly who he is as both a leader and a law enforcement officer.”

The academy includes more than 720 hours of instruction. Richards said he chose to complete the program because it is the same standard expected of deputies entering the profession today.