The Law Enforcement Appreciation Committee (LEAC) was founded in 1978 by Rick and Marie Fritts who were very civic-minded citizen business owners in Riverside, California.  Their goal and desire was to pay annual tribute to deserving law enforcement officers throughout Western Riverside County for acts of valor or bravery; distinguished or exemplary police work; or has demonstrated outstanding service and commitment to protect families, homes and neighborhoods. 

Their initial desire and efforts have led to the creation of LEAC, a California non-profit organization which annually invites the community to participate in the annual formal awards ceremony by honoring deserving peace officers for distinguished police work and outstanding service.  Law enforcement officers are nominated annually, in writing, by their respective employing agency and submitted to the committee for review and approval.  Eligible and deserving recipients are publicly recognized for their efforts at the annual ceremony, which is typically held in the spring of each calendar year.  The awards dinner and ceremony are largely funded through generous donations and sponsorships from the local business community. 

LEAC is comprised of an all-volunteer board of local businesspersons and retirees, as well as law enforcement and criminal justice professionals who serve in rotating board positions as the Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary and Treasurer.  There are several other voting Committee members, which include ex-officio members; representatives from each Western Riverside County law enforcement agency; as well as Advisory Board members consisting of the local police chiefs and Sheriff from those respective agencies.