St. Felix director recognized nationally for community leadership

ALBUQUERQUE — The Federal Bureau of Investigation recognized Tim Sheahan, director of St. Felix Pantry in Rio Rancho, for his work in helping local law enforcement in 2024.

Sheahan received the Director’s Community Leadership Award  for the Albuquerque Field Office Dec. 8 from Justin Garris , special agent in charge of the Albuquerque Field Office.

A release states Sheahan’s extensive volunteer work with local, county and federal law enforcement agencies that helped him gain an understanding of their goals and objectives, as well as the needs of his community.

“It has been a privilege to act as a bridge; facilitating understanding and building trust between federal and local law enforcement officials and the citizens of the community. Appreciation goes to the dedicated law enforcement officials at the local, state and federal levels for their work in keeping communities safe,” Sheahan said.

This knowledge gave him the tools to build a bridge between the two, allowing them to work together and improve the community in the process, it reads.

“FBI Albuquerque is proud to recognize Tim Sheahan, who has selflessly made the needs of law enforcement in New Mexico and the community his top priority,” Garris said. “Tim's work illustrates the critical nature of local partnerships and the importance working together to protect our communities.”

According to the release, Sheahan created a rapid response team in 2022 dedicated to supporting law enforcement officers in times of need.

"In 2024, the state of New Mexico faced several trying events which included officers who were killed in the line of duty as well as two devastating wildfires which claimed the lives of two civilians. Without hesitation, Mr. Sheahan deployed his rapid response team in partnership with the FBI to provide meals and support to the agencies who responded and were directly impacted from these occurrences," it states.

Sheahan's volunteer efforts include work with Albuquerque Crime Stoppers, Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office and the Albuquerque Police Department. It states he provided water and food to APD cadets and officers at DUI checkpoints and receptions for fallen officers, assisted as a K9 decoy during training and created the idea of “Cruiser Bags” distribution which involve taking goodie bags to all substations for patrol officers as a token of gratitude for their work.

“Supporting their efforts is a pleasure, as a strong partnership between law enforcement and the public is vital for a thriving society," Sheahan said.

"This award validates the importance of community outreach and engagement. It encourages continuing work as an ambassador, connecting the FBI with the communities they serve, fostering open dialogue, and working together to build a safer future for everyone.”

Sheahan also volunteered as past president of FBI Albuquerque Citizen’s Academy Alumni Association, member and regional coordinator of the National FBI Citizens Academy Alumni Association, member of Rotary Club of Albuquerque, past president of Albuquerque Police Citizen’s Academy Alumni Association, memberof the Bernalillo County Sheriffs Citizens Academy Alumni Association, vice chair of La Vida Llena Life Plan Community and chairman of the board for Albuquerque Metro Crimestoppers.