Iowa City Police Department celebrates new hires, promotion, and annual awards

The Iowa City Police Department (ICPD) welcomed two new officers, celebrated a promotion, and presented annual awards during a ceremony Friday, May 1, 2026, in Emma Harvat Hall.

New Hires

(L-R) Officer Nathan Smithey, Chief Dustin Liston, and Officer Yuji Lopez

Officer Nathan Smithey, 22, is from Iowa City. Officer Smithey earned a bachelor's degree in Biology from the University of Iowa and minored in Criminal Justice. Officer Smithey will attend the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy beginning May 4, 2026.

Officer Yuji Lopez, 24, is from Eldridge. Officer Lopez earned a bachelor's degree in Criminology from the University of Iowa. Officer Lopez will attend the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy beginning May 4, 2026.

Promotion

(L-R) Chief Dustin Liston and Sgt. Kurt Fuchs

Officer Kurt Fuchs was hired on Jan. 7, 2013, and promoted to Sergeant on April 26, 2026. Sgt. Fuchs has previously served on patrol and in investigations, is a field training officer and crime scene technician, and Project Lifesaver operator.

Sgt. Fuchs is assigned to the day watch.

Annual Awards

(L-R) Officer Ivan Rossi and Chief Dustin Liston

Officer of the Year - Ivan Rossi

The Officer of the Year Award is presented annually to the officer who most significantly demonstrates work and behavioral ethics that mirror the Iowa City Police Department's oath of honor and exemplifies a positive image of the Iowa City Police Department, as well as the community.

Officer Ivan Rossi was praised by his peers as a "well-rounded, highly-respected, and extremely competent officer" who never hesitates to assist his fellow officers. Rossi's translation skills were commended and have been an asset to the department.

"He is well-liked by his peers and superiors," reads one nomination. "Officer Rossi has become someone that younger officers look toward for guidance, mentorship, and a calm demeanor when situations become escalated."

(L-R) Detective Niles Mercer and Chief Dustin Liston

Investigator of the Year - Niles Mercer

The Investigator of the Year Award is presented annually to the investigator who most significantly demonstrates work and behavioral ethics that mirror the oath of honor, core values, and exemplify a positive image of the Iowa City Police Department and community. The Investigator of the Year award recipient is nominated by supervisors and chosen by Command Staff.

As the Iowa City Police Department's representative on the Johnson County Drug Task Force - and senior member of the task force - Detective Niles Mercer was noted for consistently demonstrating "exceptional professionalism, investigative skill, and dedication to public safely."

In the past year, Detective Mercer was responsible for seven federal indictments, the disruption of five drug trafficking organizations, and the seizure of significant quantities of controlled substances. He also tracks overdoses in Johnson County and uses that information to develop informed enforcement strategies.

"Detective Mercer's sustained work ethic, leadership, and measurable impact on public safety exemplify the mission and core values of the Iowa City Police Department," his nomination reads.

(L-R) Officer Alma Millikan and Chief Dustin Liston

Richard "Dick" Lee Award - Alma Millikan

The Richard "Dick" Lee Award was established in 1999 by several retired ICPD officers to honor the life work of Captain Dick Lee, who served as an Iowa City Police Officer for 32 years. The recipient is nominated by their colleagues, who also vote on the recognition.

The annual award is presented to an officer in recognition of outstanding sustained efforts over the last year which positively impacted the community through a program or activity.

Officer Alma Millikan's fellow officers describe her as a "consummate professional who consistently goes out of her way to help follow officers and the citizens of Iowa City." Officer Millikan is highly regarded for her willingness to assist her fellow officers and for her valuable communication and translation skills.

"Her ability to translate helps officers solve crimes in a quick and efficient manner," her nomination reads. "She also has the ability to better connect with victims."

Officer Millikan also organized a recreational soccer team, which includes her fellow officers.

(L-R) Station Master Carley Crozier and Chief Dustin Liston

Civilian Employee of the Year - Carley Crozier

The Civilian Employee of the Year Award was created in 2013 by retired Community Service Officer Lynda Ambrose to recognize the efforts and contributions of non-sworn personnel who are critical to maintaining the success and mission of the department on a daily basis.

Station Master Carley Crozier exemplifies customer service by always greeting both visitors and officers with warmth and positivity. She was praised in her nominations for her willingness to assist with various tasks at the police department.

"Carley is always in a good mood and is always willing to help officers out with whatever they need," her nomination reads.

(L-R) Animal Care Technician Sophie McClatchey and Animal Services Coordinator Devon Strief

Chris S. Whitmore Animal Services Employee of the Year - Sophie McClatchey

The Chris S. Whitmore Animal Services Employee of the Year Award recognizes the Animal Services employee who best demonstrates the qualities of former Animal Services Coordinator Chris Whitmore, including a commitment to providing quality care to both the animals and people of the community.

Animal Care Technician Sophie McClatchey was praised for their work ethic, professionalism, and problem-solving abilities. McClatchey's colleagues praise them for being a valuable source for information and guidance and for their passion for the wellbeing of animals.

"Sophie's willingness to jump in, lead by example, and support both volunteers and fosters makes a meaningful difference every day," one of their nominations reads.