PORTSMOUTH — Police Officer Scott Sullivan’s good deeds have not gone unrewarded.

On Thursday night, “Officer Sully,” who was recently named Portsmouth’s school resource officer, was honored by R.I. Attorney General Peter F. Kilmartin during the 11th annual Justice Awards in Providence.

He received a special Justice Award for Community Service. Nominated by the Police Chief Thomas Lee, Officer Sullivan was recognized for his work in improving the holidays for Portsmouth’s youth by creating fund-raising events and coordinating a donation drive.

Last year, the program was so successful that the Police Department received enough donations to assist 132 people in town and was also able to provide gifts to families in need in neighboring communities. Officer Sullivan has since expanded the program so it’s a year-round effort.

“Officer Sullivan’s actions and efforts succeeded in making a difference in the lives of so many people this past holiday season, and his continued efforts will ensure that the 2015 season draws an even greater outcome,” said Attorney General Kilmartin. “His hard work and dedication to the cause of providing for Portsmouth’s youth not only during the holidays but year round has resulted in a tremendous positive effect on the lives of so many families and helps build trust between police and the community.”

Chief Lee added, “We’re very proud that Officer Sullivan received a Justice Award for Community Service from the attorney general.   Officer Sullivan embodies community policing; he’s spent countless hours on his own time collecting, wrapping and distributing presents to needy children at Christmas.

“I’d like to thank the attorney general for recognizing Scott’s efforts helping children and families in need. It’s not often thought of as traditional law enforcement, but as Scott has said, ‘Bringing a smile to a child’s face is more rewarding than any arrest I ever made.’”

Justice Awards are given in recognition of individuals’ and organizations’ extraordinary commitment to justice and community service and are presented in honor of the eight previous attorneys general: Arlene Violet, Richard Israel, Herbert DeSimone, Dennis Roberts, James O’Neil, Jeffrey Pine, Sheldon Whitehouse and Patrick Lynch.