Ruston Police Department Officer Matthew Reed has been honored as the 2025 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year by the Ruston Kiwanis Club. The resident of Weston, LA, was presented the award at the Lincoln Parish Chamber of Commerce Banquet on February 13th.
“This prestigious recognition reflects Officer Reed’s outstanding dedication, professionalism, and commitment to serving the citizens of our community. His hard work and service exemplify the values of excellence, integrity, and leadership in law enforcement.” – Ruston Police Department Administration
The 2018 graduate of Jonesboro-Hodge High School began his career in law enforcement at the Jackson Parish Correctional Center before a first stint with the Ruston Police Department (RPD) from December 14, 2020, to January 15, 2022. From there, Reed began serving the residents of Jackson Parish as a Deputy with the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office, where he stayed until mid-December 2024, before going back to the Ruston Police Department on December 22, 2024
“I am greatly honored and humbled to receive this award,” said Reed. “I am blessed to work for Chief Eric Watson and with all the investigators and fellow officers of the Ruston Police Department, who have been instrumental in helping me grow as an officer.”
Reed also made a point to recognize former Jackson Parish Sheriff Andy Brown, current Sheriff Brent Barnett, Chief Investigator Steven Watts, and fellow JPSO Deputies.
“I was very fortunate to receive invaluable training from Sheriff Brown and Brent Barnett, who was Chief Deputy at the time, as well as Steven Watts, as they took me under their wing and taught me the correct way to be a law enforcement officer,” continued Reed. “It was also great to work alongside and learn from a great group of fellow Deputies at the JPSO.”
Most of all, Reed wanted to thank his mother, Kimberly, and father, Travis Reed, who has made a career in law enforcement and is the Chief of Police for the Village of Hodge, LA.
“I wouldn’t be where I am today, were it not for the great upbringing I received from my parents,” concluded Reed. “They taught me not only great values to live by, but growing up as the son of a law enforcement officer showed me how important it is to respect the law and gave me the desire to be of service to others.”
Statement by the Kiwanis Club of Ruston
Officer Matthew Reed is a dedicated and highly respected member of the Ruston Police Department, whose professionalism, initiatve and commitment to service exemplify the very best of law enforcement.
Over the past year, Officer Reed has consistently demonstrated an exceptional level of dedication to both his department and the citizens he serves, setting a standard of excellence that extends well beyond the call of duty.
In 2025, Officer Reed distinguished himself through proactive, self-initiated enforcement efforts while serving in the Directed Patrol Unit and the Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) Task Force. During this time, he was responsible for 82 arrests and responded to 197 calls for service, all the while maintaining a calm, professional demeanor and a positive attitude.
Known for his tactical skill and strong focus on officer safety, Officer Reed approaches every situation with precision, preparation, and sound judgment.
Officer Reed also serves as a Field Training Officer, where he plays a critical role in mentoring and developing new officers. His ability to communicate effectively – both with fellow officers and with members of the public – has earned him widespread respect.
He regularly employs innovative communication techniques to build cooperation, gather information, and foster trust within the community.
Humble, dependable, and deeply committed to community-oriented policing, Officer Reed has become a valued resource within his department. His work ethic, leadership, and dedication to public safety make him a deserving recipient of the Outstanding Law Enforcement Officer of the Year honor.