The Times Herald (Norristown, PA)
OFFICER APPRECIATION
Awards dinner: Event recognizes accomplishments of Norristown Police officers Citations and accolades: Officers lauded for ‘above and beyond’ acts of heroism
NORRISTOWN » Families, friends, and supporters gathered to recognize Norristown’s finest at the 2nd Annual Norristown Police Appreciation Dinner and Awards Ceremony Tuesday evening at Elmwood Park Zoo.
The ceremony also featured the swearing-in of the police department’s new chaplains elect, a community recognition award and acknowledgments of new and promoted officers.
Emceed by Lieutenants Michael Bishop and Steven Lawless, the event focussed on the tireless, diligent and sometimes dangerous work Norristown police officers do to safeguard the community.
From officers involved in the speedy apprehension of serial robbery suspects to the team who investigated and made the quick arrest of a suspected double murderer, individual officers, platoons, detectives and K-9 units were honored for their everyday heroism as well as selfless acts that went above and beyond the call of duty.
Among the night’s highlights, Detective Charles Leeds was awarded with a citation of commendation for the “courageousness, heroism and devotion to duty,” shown in his role in the apprehension of an armed robbery suspect who refused to surrender after being cornered by police in a backyard in the 200 block of East Chestnut Street, Feb. 27.
The suspect drew his weapon on Leeds, who was able to end the threat by shooting the suspect and taking him into custody.
“For the greater good, this officer charged toward the gunfire and the armed robbery suspect,’’the citation read.
“Once disarmed, the officers (at the scene) exhibited their dedication to preservation of life by initiating first aid on the injured suspect until medical personnel arrived.”
Leeds received a standing ovation as he accepted the award.
Officer Carl Robinson Jr. received a commendation for his leading role in a search and seizure operation which
led to the single largest heroin seizure in the municipality’s history last December.
And Officer Samantha O’Neill received the Life Saving Award for administering first aid to a shooting victim last month. O’Neill applied direct pressure to a life-threatening gunshot wound, then assisted paramedics when they arrived at the scene.
Norristown Police Chief Mark Talbot Sr., Deputy Chief Captain Richard Clowser and Lieutenant Todd Dillon helped hand out dozens of citations, commendations and certificates of recognition throughout the evening, including a civilian Community Recognition Award to 14-year old Jessica Avelino, who on May 9, prevented an unattended one-year-old boy from being hit by car when he ran out into the street after a ball. She then called 911 and assisted police with their translation efforts which led to the child being reunited with his mother.
Clowser ended the night by giving special recognition to all the family members in attendance for their steadfast support of the officers.
“We heard all the great things our officers did tonight through our presentations, but we know we probably don’t thank you enough for your support,” Clowser said.
“Being home at night alone wondering when we’re going to walk back through the door; so for that, we want to make sure that we thank all of you.”