By Sarah Nigbor

RIVER FALLS – Police Chief Gordon Young awarded River Falls Police Investigator Ryan Miller the 2021 Officer of the Year award at the June 14 River Falls City Council meeting.

“What makes this award so special is that it’s through his peers, that he was selected,” Young said.

He described Miller as a compassionate person who displays great leadership and a strong work ethic. Miller started in 2004 as a reserve officer and was hired full-time in 2006 as a patrol officer.

“Since that time, he has worked diligently on drunk driving arrests and narcotic investigations,” Young said.

In 2014, he was promoted to investigations and became a member of the St. Croix Valley Drug Task Force.

“He excels in property crimes, crimes against children, and computer forensics, which is critical for us these days,” Young said. “He’s also dedicated to the victims of his crimes. He puts them first. He makes sure they’re cared for and that they have all the services that they need.”

Miller has made it a priority to promote community engagement opportunities for area law enforcement agencies. He started Coffee with a Cop in 2014, which gives residents the opportunity to meet and speak with police officers at coffee shops in River Falls.

He’s also partnered with Special Olympics for the Torch Run bicycle ride and Run with the Cops, which is put on and sponsored by local law enforcement agencies, UW-River Falls and businesses. Each year since 2016, under Miller’s leadership, community members have supported Special Olympics by running and walking the 5K or one-mile loop during the popular glow run. He enjoys fostering positive interactions between officers and kids.

Miller resides in River Falls with his wife Kristin and daughter Emma. In his time away from the police department, Miller keeps his yard looking pristine, works as a ski patrol officer and enjoys skiing recreationally.