The Washington Traffic Safety Commission has announced that Capt. Jeff Godbey of the Lewis County Sheriff's Office has been named the Law Enforcement Liaison of the Year for 2023.
The award recognizes Godbey's dedication to traffic safety and his contributions to the community, according to a news release from the commission.
He was honored at the Region 3 Traffic Safety Task Force meeting on Tuesday, June 18, at the Lewis County Sheriff's Office. Statewide Law Enforcement Liaison Bob Thompson presented Godbey with the award.
"Captain Godbey's commitment to traffic safety and his innovative approach to community partnerships have made a tremendous impact," Thompson said in the release. "We are proud to recognize his contributions and leadership."
Godbey has been the law enforcement liaison for Lewis County since 2018, demonstrating a commitment to reducing traffic fatalities and serious injuries, the commission stated.
He began his career in the sheriff’s office’s Explorer program and then spent 13 years focusing on impaired driving as a drug recognition expert.
Godbey has forged strong partnerships within the community and law enforcement agencies, according to the commission. His efforts in organizing events such as the ABATE Spring Opener, the Night of 1.000 Stars and the Annual Traffic Safety Awards Banquet have significantly contributed to promoting traffic safety and honoring those who uphold it, according to the commission.
“Godbey's proactive approach extends to educational initiatives such as Safety City, which teaches essential traffic safety skills to over 1,000 elementary students annually,” the commission stated in the release. “His engagement with high school programs and events like National Night Out fosters positive relationships between youth and law enforcement, furthering community trust and safety awareness.”
In addition to his local impact, Godbey collaborates with surrounding counties to enhance law enforcement training and knowledge, including to his recent hosting of an Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement.
“The success of the Lewis County Target Zero Task Force owes much to Captain Godbey's tireless efforts,” the commission stated in the release. “His passion for prevention, education and enforcement has made significant strides in making roadways safer for everyone.”
