Deputy Nichols recognized for rare achievement

Klamath County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Andrew Nichols recently completed training in Salem, OR at the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) and was awarded the Victor G. Atiyeh Outstanding Student Award for the second time.

Deputy Nichols, who started as a KCSO Corrections Deputy in February 2019, first received the award in November 2019 when he graduated Basic Corrections Training for his role in the Klamath County Jail. Deputy Nichols transferred to Patrol in 2020 and received the Victor G. Atiyeh award again in February 2021 after he completed the Basic Police Academy for his transition to being a Patrol Deputy.

“It is extremely rare for someone to receive this award twice,” said Klamath County Sheriff Chris Kaber. “This is a testament of the dedication to professionalism and ethics that Deputy Nichols exhibits, and an example of the quality that the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office prides itself in.”

The Victor G. Atiyeh Outstanding Student Award is presented to the student who display’s exceptional professionalism and ethics as well as a positive attitude throughout basic training. Deputy Nichols was evaluated on demonstrated leadership, academic standing, performance in survival skills, and overall health and fitness. This is the highest honor a student can receive from the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST).