Daily Local News (West Chester, PA)
Officers honored
WEST WHITELAND » Several members of West Whiteland Police Department were recognized last week.
Ofc. Courtenay DeLaney presented Chief Lee Benson with the Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association certificate authorizing West Whiteland Township Police Department as an accredited law enforcement agency. DeLaney, along with Lt. Matthew Deceder, spent countless hours making sure many standards were met. West Whiteland Police Department is one of the few agencies within Pennsylvania that received this honor.
Capt. Matthew Herkner was recognized for his 25 years of service to the township. Herkner started as a patrolman before becoming the township’s first K-9 Officer with his partner Beny. Herkner rose through the ranks to sergeant, detective sergeant, and lieutenant. Herkner now oversees the Criminal Investigations Division, as well as performing administrative duties.
Deceder was recognized for his 25 years of service. Deceder started as a patrolman and took on many duties, notably training new officers in various disciplines. Deceder rose through the ranks to sergeant and his current assignment as lieutenant. Deceder now oversees the Patrol Division as well as performing administrative duties.
Tammy Favinger was recognized for her 35 years. She is most likely the first person people see when they visit. Det. Sgt. Jason Madormo, Sgt. Jeffrey McCloskey, Det. Scott Pezick, and Det. Mike Buchmann were awarded with a Distinguished Unit Citation for their roles in the investigation and successful prosecution of a fatal vehicle crash that occurred in 2018.
Buchmann was awarded with a Commendation of Merit for his role in the investigation and prosecution of a sexual assault against a child cold case from 2008.