Cobb Reporter

Lt. Louis Defense has been named 2021 Smyrna Citizen of the Year by the Cobb Chamber's Smyrna Area Council.

The defense, crime prevention and public information officer at the Smyrna Police Department is widely viewed as the face of the department after serving more than two decades. 

The Citizen of the Year Awards are given to “honor an individual whose impact through the years will be recognized and regarded with pride throughout the area as a role model,” the chamber states.

Winning officers are tabbed for their “definable, exceptional deeds, with which he or she have made their community a better place to live.” Awards are based on local area nominations.

Over his career, Defense has also served in uniform patrol as well as being the supervisor of the community relations unit with Smyrna police. As the COVID-19 pandemic has lingered, Defense has delivered groceries and medication to Smyrna's at-risk populations. Due to the program's popularity, it has expanded Defense's reach into areas of unincorporated Cobb that bordered Smyrna.

Defense also coordinated and instructed Smyrna Police Department's inaugural Youth Police Academy where youngsters from the area attend a one-week "police academy," learning about law enforcement and how to succeed in life.

Defense is also a recognizable face in local schools and colleges, where he regularly spends time mentoring youngsters in both law enforcement and life skills.

Prior to entering law enforcement, Defense was a member of the U.S. Marines. During his time with Smyrna police, he has been involved in the local schools, neighborhoods, senior communities and local civic groups.

Defense has also helped the department with college internships, active shooter classes, citizens police academy, neighborhood watch and women’s self-defense.