Shriners name Deputies of the Year

GEIGER HEIGHTS – Two Spokane County Sheriff’s Office deputies have received “Deputy of the Year” honors from the Elk Katif Shriners.

Travis West and Terry Liljenberg were recognized for their professionalism, dedication and service to Spokane County.

West was honored for his impact with the Spokane Valley Investigative Unit, where he worked his own cases, wrote his own search warrants and assisted other investigators within the agency.

West also tracked down and arrested wanted suspects after probable cause had been established, officials said, noting his tenacity and attention led to the discovery of new crimes, investigations and the seizure of supporting evidence.

Liljenberg was honored for his 36-year career with the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office.

He started as a correctional officer at the Spokane County Jail in 1986 and was hired as a deputy two years later.

In 1991, he became a field training officer; later he would train former Ozzie Knezovich as a transfer deputy.

Liljenberg served as a DARE officer from 1996-2003, then returned to the patrol duties for three years with the agency’s Bike Patrol.

Liljenberg also served on the Sheriff’s Office Chaplains Board and as a traffic school instructor, duties he continues today.

In 2016, Liljenberg returned to being a field training officer, another duty he continues today.