Knoxville Mayor Madeline Rogero and Police Chief David Rausch named Knoxville Police Department Explorer Colby Chandler the 2012 Explorer of the Year. Explorer

Chandler has been with the department since June 2010.

Chief Rausch said that during his time with the Explorer program, Explorer Chandler has advanced through all the ranks of the program due to his dedication and hard work. Explorer Chandler has served as Squad Leader, Platoon Leader, and is currently the Executive Officer for the post.

Chief Rausch said, "Throughout his time in the explorers, Colby has done a remarkable job of taking the initiative and responsibility to excel in everything that he does. He has consistently set a good example for the other explorers to follow. He has been pro-active and seeks out opportunities and ideas to not only increase his work and exposure to law enforcement, but also to better the Explorer Unit."

In 2012, Explorer Chandler donated 350 hours to the department and the community. These hours are the result of working 86% of the 56 activities that the post participated in during 2012.

"We congratulate Colby for his unselfish dedication, dependability, and volunteer hours," Chief Rausch concluded.