At Wednesday’s Newtown Township Board of Supervisors meeting, several police officer’s were recognized for their actions last year.
Here’s how police explained the commendations:
Officer Thomas Rawa and Officer Jules Ferraro received Commendations of Merit for their exceptional actions on October 1 last year while responding to and investigating a domestic disturbance within the Society Place complex which involved a mother and her 18-year-old son, who was armed with a large kitchen knife. Upon arrival, the male was located outside in the parking lot area, still armed with a knife, and he appeared emotionally unstable. They responded swiftly, immediately recognizing the mental health issues involved, and were able to diffuse the situation, gain compliance, and peacefully secure the 18-year-old, all without injury to any persons present. The male was subsequently transported to a medical facility by police for appropriate treatment. This is an outstanding example of the de-escalation techniques used frequently by police at violent situations, which reinforces our desire of and commitment to life preservation and protection of the community.
Cpl. Paul Deppi and Officer Brandon Turpyn received Commendations of Merit for their exceptional actions on October 29, last year while responding to and investigating a burglary at Pickering Manor construction site, located at 226 North Lincoln Avenue, in conjunction with Newtown Borough Police Officer Steven Szerlag. Their swift responses greatly contributed to the successful communication of information, scene preservation, and subsequent arrest of Brent Leone of Bensalem. who was charged with burglary and related offenses. Leone was also subsequently found responsible for several additional thefts and burglaries in the area which were under investigation, and he was charged accordingly. Officer Szerlag was awarded a Letter of Commendation from our department for his vigilance and initiative that led to the timely arrest of this nighttime burglar as well. This is an outstanding example of the ongoing cooperation and partnership we share with our counterparts to protect our communities.
