Key West Police Chief Donie Lee on Thursday presented Officer Curtis Richardson with a Chief’s Commendation in recognition of his continuing dedication and professionalism.

In the predawn hours of July 22, Officer Richardson was on routine patrol in the 200 block of Truman Avenue when they saw heavy smoke billowing from the rear of a building. He quickly woke the residents and discovered that a pile of rags soaked in highly combustible deck stain was smoldering at the rear of the house and beginning to burn the structure.

“Because of your quick actions,” said Chief Lee, “a potential house file was quelled with a nearby garden hose. Your keen skills and decisive response prevented the possibility of further damage, injury or even the loss of life.”