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NewsWFLA News Channel 8August 30, 2026Hillsborough

Clearwater Police Officer Andrew Billups named Officer of the Year

Clearwater Police Officer Andrew Billups received the Officer of the Year award at the 11th annual Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Foundation gala. The recognition follows his rescue of a nonverbal 8-year-old girl with autism who was stranded on rocks at Clearwater Beach.

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Why It Matters

This award recognizes a specific act of public service by a local law enforcement officer in the Tampa Bay area.

Key Facts

  • Officer Andrew Billups was named Officer of the Year.
  • The award was presented at the 11th annual Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Foundation gala.
  • The award ceremony took place on a Saturday evening.
  • Officer Billups rescued a nonverbal 8-year-old girl with autism.
  • The rescue occurred on jagged rocks at Clearwater Beach.

Who's Mentioned

personAndrew Billups“Clearwater police officer who received the Officer of the Year award.”personKathy Petrucelli“The grandmother of the rescued child.”locationClearwater“City where the officer serves and where the rescue occurred.”personLavina“The 8-year-old girl rescued by Officer Billups.”organizationTampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Foundation“Organization that hosted the gala and presented the award.”