The Howard County Police Department has been selected to receive a Governor's Crime Prevention Award, according to the department.

The award, given annually to agencies, officers, community groups, businesses and residents throughout Maryland who contribute to crime prevention programming, will be presented at a ceremony in December.

According to the department, it will be recognized for integrating crime prevention programs as part of its daily operations.

"We see firsthand the exceptional work done by our employees and volunteers, but it's nice to see their successes acknowledged on a larger scale," Police Chief William J. McMahon said in a statement.

Other recipients include:

Officer Erika Heavner, for crime prevention efforts in the Chapel View community in Ellicott City.

Debbie Gunn, a civilian employee assigned to the police satellite office in North Laurel, for efforts to promote relationships between police and the community.

Explorer Post 1952, a program of volunteers ages 14 to 21, for participation in mentoring programs serving at-risk youth.

Patricia Thompson, a resident, for volunteering at police events.

Community Resource Section, for efforts to find solutions to community issues and improve relationships between police and community.

Domestic Violence Unit, for efforts to increase domestic violence arrests, improve the collection of evidence and increase training for officers.