Jacksonville Police Chief Mike Yaniero has received state recognition for his work to address the opioid epidemic.

Yaniero is one of the recipients of the 2019 Dogwood Awards presented by the N.C. Attorney General. Attorney General Josh Stein announced the recipients on Tuesday.

The awards are given annually to honor North Carolinians who are dedicated to keeping people safe, healthy, and happy in their communities.

Yaniero said he is humbled to receive the honor, but quickly gave credit to the community. Addressing the opioid crisis locally meant getting governments, police, first responders, and other organizations working together, according to Yaniero.