Dallas Detectives Receive
James B. Comey FBI Director Award
Special Agent in Charge Thomas Class of the Dallas FBI office presented the James B. Comey FBI Director Award to
three Dallas Police detectives. Sergeant Ross Salverino, #3396, was commended for his ongoing efforts in support of the
FBI Task Force and their federal prosecution of commercial robbery suspects. Detectives Eric Barnes, #8854, and James
Thompson, #6217, were commended for their efforts in the apprehension of Brenda Delgado who fled to Mexico to
elude apprehension in a Dallas murder case. The award, a way to honor individuals and organizations for their annual
efforts in combating crimes, terrorism, drugs and violence in the U.S. These detectives, selected by our area FBI field
office for their efforts in 2016, have demonstrated outstanding contributions to the city of Dallas through service.
64th Annual Johnny Sides
Rookie of the Year Award
Every year the Dallas Junior Chamber of Commerce (DJCC) recognizes one rookie Dallas
Police officer with the Johnny Sides Rookie of the Year award. The award is named in
honor of Dallas Police officer Johnny Sides who was killed in the line of duty after being
on the department only three months. Despite his short tenure, Officer Johnny Sides was
an exceptional police officer and also a DJCC member. Officer Sides was admired for his
dedication, leadership, and sacrifice. Officer Sides was fatally wounded when a group of
four wanted criminals opened fire on him and his partner during a traffic stop. Officer
Sides was able to positively identify all four suspects before he passed away on February
7, 1951, resulting in their capture and prosecution. Since 1952, the DJCC has honored
extraordinary Dallas Police rookie officers every year with this award.
The 2016 Johnny Sides Rookie of the Year is officer J. Brandon Helms #10724 from the
Central Business District. Since his graduation from the Dallas Police Academy on May 4, 2015, Officer Helms has distinguished
himself as a highly motivated, resourceful and dependable officer.
Officer Kennetta Pate #10812 and Officer Kelly Kaltenbacher #10638 were also nominated for the award and the Dallas Police
Department is incredibly proud of them for their hard work and service to the citizens of Dallas.
This year’s program included speaking appearances by former Navy Seal Clint Bruce, Assist the Officer Foundation Pres ident
Frederick Frazier, and Interim Chief of Police David Pughes. The DJCC also proudly presented a check to the Assist the
Officer Foundation for $5000 to help support injured officers, officers killed in the line of duty, and their families. The Dallas
Police Department is so thankful to the DJCC for hosting this wonderful event and for their continued support of our officers.
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