The Punta Gorda Police Department has announced an honor for one of its own. Community Services Lieutenant Katie Heck was elected President of the Florida Criminal Justice Executive Institute’s Florida Leadership Academy’s 38th Class. According to a news release, the Florida Leadership Academy prepares first-line supervisors in criminal justice organizations to exemplify the character and integrity expected of criminal justice professionals. The program also examines the various components necessary to be an effective leader. Katie is among 39 other law enforcement professionals in the current academy class, being held at the Southwest Florida Public Service Academy in Fort Myers.