2023 Officer of the Year – Investigator Tyler Reece
Throughout the year, Investigator Reece continually demonstrated a proactive, tenacious, disciplined, and procedurally sound approach to basic police work concentrated on traffic enforcement with a focus on drug interdiction. He displayed the persistence to pursue offenders in a variety of ways using all available tools at his disposal. He not only displayed assertiveness towards pursuing offenders, but also completed the task with sound judgment, consistent with laws and legal procedures. In the process, he mentored younger, newer officers, and also served as a field training officer.
Valor Award – Corporal Jonathan Regan & Officer Samantha DiFrancesco
The Medal of Valor is the highest award presented to a member of the department. It is awarded for the performance of an arrest, where the officer’s efforts were met by an armed and dangerous adversary; or for an act of heroism and outstanding courage, without regard to one’s personal safety. Both officers pursued a career criminal, who had stolen multiple vehicles, and then used a stolen vehicle to attempt to kill a Caln Township police officer. After intentionally crashing head on into a Caln police vehicle, the offender threatened the use of a firearm. He was taken into custody in a densely populated neighborhood without loss of life to anyone involved, or harm to the community.
Merit Award – Investigator Christopher Traini
Awarded for intelligent and valuable police service, demonstrating alertness and perseverance, including an especially important or noteworthy arrest, accomplished through intelligent or brave police performance. Investigator Traini pursued 2 suspects on foot that fled from a stolen vehicle. While running through dense vegetation, they fell into a deep pond. Without hesitation, Investigator Traini dove in, rescued them, and then placed them under arrest.
Life Saving Award – Officer Travis Hodes
Awarded for an act performed in the line of duty which results in the saving of a life. Officer Hodes was summoned to a home for an unresponsive person. When he arrived, the individual showed no signs of life. Officer Hodes, who is also a certified EMT, administered CPR and utilized an AED to revive the victim.
Distinguished Unit Citation – Corporal Timothy Pohlig, Officer William Verikakis, Officer Charles Norwood
Awarded where the outstanding accomplishment is the result of teamwork rather than that of an individual officer. The officers responded to a domestic and were confronted by an individual who displayed a firearm and threatened to take his own life. He also placed his partner in danger as officers attempted to negotiate. Officers were able to de-escalate the situation and secure the firearm without injury or loss of life to anyone involved.
Police Chief’s Award For Outstanding Community Service – Officer Samantha DiFrancesco
Awarded for outstanding service and commitment to enhancing police and community relations. Officer DiFrancesco participated in many local and countywide events throughout the year that enhanced police-community relations, including mentoring opportunities with children from preschool-age to high schoolers.
Letter of Commendation – Officer Michael Cabry
Awarded for an exceptional arrest or police service, which shows dedication beyond routine duty. Officer Cabry went above and beyond the call of duty when handling a matter involving a student that walked off from school into a densely wooded area and refused to come out. Officer Cabry’s patience and diplomacy resulted in the student’s safe return to school.