Knoxville Mayor Bill Haslam and Police Chief Sterling Owen named Reserve Officer Matthew Rader the 2007 Reserve Officer of the Year for the Knoxville Police Department. 
 
Chief Owen said that Reserve Officer Rader exemplifies what the Reserve Unit is all about - volunteering time to the citizens of Knoxville. Reserve Officer Rader gladly accepts any assignment or request made by the department. He volunteers his time to assist with UT football games, works special assignments in the Central Business District, and drives a prisoner transport wagon during peak times of demand.

Chief Owen said, "During 2007, Reserve Officer Rader donated more than 315 hours to the citizens of Knoxville. During this time, he attended numerous meetings, transported 54 prisoners, issued 62 parking citations, and made 15 arrests." 

Chief Owen said, "We commend Reserve Officer Rader for his dedication and commitment to the Knoxville Police Department and the citizens of Knoxville."

Mayor Haslam said, "It is volunteers like Reserve Officer Rader that continue to make a difference in our community. We appreciate his willingness to give so much to our community."