The award recognises a police officer who goes above and beyond community expectations.
First Constable Crossing has a background in the defence force, having served as an infantry sergeant for 10 years with active duty in Iraq, Afghanistan and Timor.
He made a successful transition into the police force three years ago to become an officer who is now making a significant contribution to the local community.
First Constable Crossing was honoured for his work in family violence and in the rescue of civilians stranded in the Goulburn River at Yea in 2018.
“I did not expect it at all. I love my job and Seymour and was very proud to even be nominated in the first place,” First Constable Crossing said.
“I am extremely humbled and delighted that the effort I have put in during the past couple of years has not gone unnoticed.”
First Constable Crossing enjoys all aspects of his job but said responding to family violence incidents was a recurring theme in his line of work.
“I enjoy reducing the availability of drugs, including illegal tobacco, by executing warrants and seizing and destroying them, therefore removing them from our streets,” he said.
“The most enjoyable times I have had in the job would be when I get to show young people through the station and seeing the reactions on their faces.
“But family violence is sadly a predominant part of the job. I have attended family violence incidents ranging from extreme violence with weapons to calm members of the public wishing to get their property back after altercations.
“Last year the family violence reporting system changed in Victoria Police and after this I compiled a report/questionnaire to aid police force members to gain the additional and delicate information required from affected family members after a family violence incident.
“This has been a valuable tool for all police force members and creates a more in-depth detailed report while out and about for the uniform officers who are the first responders for these incidents.
“I always speak with the parties involved after any incident and help where I can with any civil matters like property exchange, custody of children and accommodation for those affected.”