FARMINGTON — Farmington police officer Justin Blais has been named the department’s employee of the quarter for the winter of 2015.

“Your compassion, communication skills and overall work ethic has not gone unnoticed by myself or your peers,” said Chief Jack Peck.

On Jan. 31, Blais investigated the abandoned vehicle left behind by Harold “Butch” Knight. Knight, who is wanted in connection with the murder of his wife in Michigan, is still unaccounted for and was last seen in the Farmington and Rangeley areas.

Also in January Blais was called to assist Franklin Memorial Hospital staff with a patient who was suicidal and needed to be restrained and forced to take medication.

“Your calm demeanor and communication skills defused a tense situation, and as a result of your actions the patient took his medications voluntarily,” Peck said.

Blais also investigated a complex case of domestic abuse involving a Farmington resident who has a history of domestic violence. The chief said Blais’ investigation included two search warrants and that he secured evidence that resulted in the person’s arrest.

“Again, due to your commitment, determination and communication skills you helped the Farmington Police Department meet its mission, which is ‘to create a feeling of safety for the people within the Town of Farmington.’ “