Tulsa Businessman, Reserve Officer Honored By Sheriff's Office

A generous businessman and reserve officer has been honored as Citizen of the Year for 2011 by the Tulsa County Sheriff's Office.

Sheriff Stanley Glanz presented Greg Merrell with the award earlier this week.

Merrell, the owner of Aircraft Specialties, donates his personal helicopter and time to assist the law enforcement agency with investigations. Merrell's aerial support is used to track suspects on the run, look for stolen equipment, and help search for lost kids and elderly people.

Merrell also scouts out residences where deputies are about to serve warrants, according to a release from the TCSO.

Merrell is a photographer who uses those skills to serve the department as well.

"Greg donated a house and building space on his properties to our SWAT Team, which enables them to conduct on-going training throughout the year," the release states.

Merrell and his employees donate money each year to help with food and toys for the Annual Mike Clancy Toy & Food Drive.

Merrell has been a reserve officer with the department since 1995.