For the third year in a row, Snoqualmie’s own Sean Absher got the nod as the Valley’s best police officer.

Born in the city and still a Valley resident, Absher proactively patrols the city, enforces traffic laws and responds to crimes. A range master and firearms instructor, he is a  member of the Coalition of Small Police Agencies’ Special Operations Team. He answered questions about his role and motivations last week:

What made you want to be in law enforcement?

I have worked for the department for 12 years. Prior to that, I was a contract timber faller, logger and heavy equipment operator. I decided to become a law enforcement officer because I wanted a safer and stable job with insurance, benefits and retirement for my family.

What’s your impact on city life?

I work with the public almost every day. I think seeing the Valley grow and having a lot of local connections is a great asset to me. Working for these years in law enforcement gives me a special insight to people’s struggles and hardships they have endured. My goal is to try to treat everyone fairly. When someone walks away from a contact with me, I hope they think they were treated fairly and they understand I was just doing my job. Respect and compassion go a long way. Sometimes it is really hard, though.

What’s one thing people might be surprised about in your job?

I think most people think Snoqualmie is this sleepy little community. For the most part, they’re right. However, we do experience crime and tragic events—just not in such a high volume as bigger cities. So be thankful for the great service we get from all of our emergency services personnel.

What’s surprised you about public safety in Snoqualmie?

Growing up in the Valley, I thought I knew a lot about the community. Now, serving the public, I never knew how hard it was to keep things running smoothly-the time, the effort that employees, administration and volunteers put in serving this community. I think we are lucky to work in such a great Valley. My advice for a safer community is for citizens to be more vigilant, keep an eye out for your neighbors and lend a hand when needed.

Are you surprised to be nominated (again) as a top cop? Do you expect anybody to give you a hard time?

I usually shrug it off and say “It’s because everybody knows me”. But truly I am. There are a lot of ‘Top Cops’ that live and serve in our Valley. I know for sure I will get a hard time from my peers.