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Arik Matson named 'Police Officer of the Year'; fundraiser set for Saturday

The award is given to an officer whose actions exceed expectations after having been injured and demonstrated courage in dangerous conditions

The Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association has given Waseca Police Officer Arik Matson the 2020 Police Officer of the Year Award. 

Matson was shot and severely injured while responding to a call of a suspicious person on January 6, 2020.

The Association also recognized 13 additional officers from across the state for their "commitment to keeping their communities safe," according to a press release.

"These awards call out some of the best, brightest and bravest men and women in Minnesota law enforcement, but police chiefs across our state also today want to recognize the great work that goes unnoticed from the vast majority of police officers in agencies of all sizes, urban and rural," said MCPA President Eric Werner, in the press release.

Other members of the Waseca Police Department who were involved in the January shooting of Matson have also been recognized for their actions. 

Captain Kris Markeson, Sergeant Tim Schroeder, and Officer Andrew Harren have all been awarded the Medal of Honor and the Lifesaving Award. 

Matson was also given the Medal of Honor. 

On Saturday, May 22, the community will also hold a "Matson Strong Benefit", with events lasting from 10:30 a.m. until well after dark at the Waseca Fairgrounds. Hundreds of donations for silent and live auctions have already poured in. The fundraiser will also include live bands, fireworks, and a bake sale, among other things, with every cent raised going to Arik Matson's family.

"It's helped me get through a lot of rough days," Matson said, expressing his gratitude for the donations. "Just a combination of the support we've had from Day One. It's all here in one place now." 

He added: "Just keep supporting law enforcement. We’re in tough times right now. Give a handshake, or say thank you for what you do for our community. That means so much more than a lot of people realize.”

Matson's mom, Sheila, said she's "overwhelmed" by the number of donations and expects a few thousand people to show up Saturday.

"The community, the state, people, law enforcement, everybody has been there – so supportive and can’t thank people enough for the support and prayers they’ve given us through this tragedy journey," she said. 

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