Army veteran is Clearwater's officer of the year

CLEARWATER (FOX 13) - A Pinellas County officer is being honored for his caring service. Clearwater Police Officer Albert Granville always has kind words and a smile when dealing with the public.  

"I try to set a positive example and I started that early in my career," Officer Granville said.

His positive attitude has paid off. He was just honored as officer of the year for the Civitan Club. The award is presented to an officer who has unselfishly given their time, talent, and energy to help better the community.

"Police officers do more than show up when something is wrong," said Officer Granville. "We actually  get out in the community and we try to make a difference."

Officer Granville went into the Army out of high school. He was an M.P. for 20 years. When he got out, he joined the Clearwater Police Department.

"Being a military policeman in the Army and a police officer, not only do we sit there and protect the community we actually get a chance to serve it as well," Officer Granville said.

"You can tell when people are genuine and they want to do something good for the community and that's 100 percent Albert," offered Sgt. Dan Devol, who has been Officer Granville's boss for the last five years.

Officer Granville has been on the force for almost 20 years and has gained the respect of his community and his peers.

"It all goes back to my mother. She always told me: You know, when you do things for people, you do it out of the kindness of your heart. You don't expect anything in return," Granville added.