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Friday, March 31, 2017Bethesda North Marriott Hotel & County Conference Center
43rd ANNUALPUBLIC SAFETY
AWARDS
Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce
43rd Annual Public Safety Awards Luncheon
@MCCCMD #MCCCPSA
Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce
43rd Annual Public Safety Awards Luncheon
is pleased to welcome Aaron Gilchrist and Erika Gonzalez
as today’s emcees.
Aaron GilchristNBC News4 Morning
News Anchor
Erika GonzalezNBC News4
Anchor
43rd ANNUALPUBLIC SAFETY
AWARDS
P R O G R A M
Montgomery County Firefighters Pipes & Drums
OpeningGeorgette “Gigi” Godwin
President and CEOMontgomery County Chamber of Commerce
Jim YoungChairman, Board of Directors
Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce
Welcome & IntroductionSteven A. Robins, Esq.
Chair, Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce Public Safety AwardsChair Emeritus, Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce
Presentation of ColorsCombined Montgomery County Public Safety Color Guard
Police, Fire & Rescue, Park Police, Sheriff and Correction and Rehabilitation
National AnthemCaptain Sherry Hohl
Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service
Pledge of Allegiance
InvocationPastor Jeanette Cochran
Seneca Creek Community Church
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Remarks
The Honorable Benjamin L. CardinUnited States Senate
The Honorable Chris Van HollenUnited States Senate
The Honorable John Delaney United States House of Representatives
The Honorable Jamie RaskinUnited States House of Representatives
The Honorable Isiah “Ike” LeggettCounty Executive, Montgomery County, Maryland
The Honorable Roger BerlinerPresident, County Council, Montgomery County, Maryland
Award Presentations Public Safety Government Partner of the Year
United States Attorney’s Office for the District of MarylandAccepted by Rod J. Rosenstein, United States Attorney for Maryland
Sponsored by Motorola Solutions, Inc.Presented by Michael Leonard, Vice President, Sales & Service
Mid-Atlantic, Motorola Solutions, Inc.
Public Safety Champion of the Year Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD)
Accepted by Lisa Spicknall, State Program Director, MADD Maryland
Sponsored by Fitzgerald’s Lakeforest Toyota Presented by Dorothy “Dottie” Fitzgerald and Jack Fitzgerald
Public Safety Corporate Vital LinkIntoxalock® | LifeSafer® | Smart Start®
Accepted by David Kelly, Executive Director Coalition of Ignition Interlock Manufacturers
Sponsored by TD BankPresented by Terrence S. Kenny, Market President
Metro DC/Baltimore, TD Bank2 3
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Luncheon
Valor and Community Service Award Ceremony
EmceesAaron Gilchrist, NBC News4 Morning News Anchor
Erika Gonzalez, NBC News4 Anchor
Award PresentationsChief Donald A. Deering Community Service Award
Unit Citation: Critical Stress Management Team, Montgomery County Department of Correction and Rehabilitation
Northampton Drive Repeat Offender
Suicide Attempt in Silver Spring
Lifesaving Attempt in Pre-Release Center
Domestic Violence in Germantown
Suicide Attempt in Germantown
Deadly Shooting Spree In Prince George’s and Montgomery Counties
Shooter in Clarksburg
Flower Branch Apartment Fire
ClosingSteven A. Robins, Esq.
Chair, MCCC Public Safety Awards
43rd ANNUALPUBLIC SAFETY
AWARDS
4 5
The Honorable Isiah “Ike” LeggettCounty Executive, Montgomery County, Maryland
The Honorable Roger Berliner President, County Council of Montgomery County, Maryland
Antonio DeVaul Chief, Maryland National-Capital Park Police - Montgomery County Division
Scott Goldstein Chief, Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service
Angela Tally Acting Director, Montgomery County Department of Correction and Rehabilitation
J. Thomas Manger Chief, Montgomery County Department of Police
The Honorable Darren M. Popkin Sheriff, Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office
Steven A. Robins, Esq. Chair, MCCC Public Safety Awards
Jim Young Chairman, Board of Directors
Montgomery County Chamber of CommerceGeorgette “Gigi” Godwin
President and CEO Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce
Public Safety Award Presenters
43rd ANNUALPUBLIC SAFETY
AWARDS
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Gold Sponsors
Platinum SponsorMarriott International, Inc.
Public Safety Government Partner of the Year Award SponsorMotorola Solutions, Inc.
Public Safety Corporate Vital Link Award SponsorTD Bank
General Reception SponsorTotal Wine & More
Meet the Chiefs Reception SponsorPepco, an Exelon Corporation
Silver Sponsors
Public Safety Awardee Guest SponsorEagleBank
Adventist HealthCare
Allied Universal Security
Aronson LLC
Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP
BDO
BGE
Blake Real Estate
BOLAND/Siemens Industry, Inc.
The Bozzuto Group/The Chevy Chase Land
Company
CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
Century Distributors
Clark Construction Group, LLC
CohnReznick LLP
Comcast
Dataprise
DAVIS Construction
AstraZeneca/MedImmune
CNAGilbane Building
Company
JLLLee Development Group
Lerch, Early & Brewer, Chtd.
Rodgers Consulting, Inc.
Shapiro & Duncan, Inc.Westat
The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company
Public Safety Champion of the Year SponsorFitzgerald’s Lakeforest Toyota
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Silver Sponsors (continued)DELTA Engineers
Architects and Land Surveyors
Discovery Communications
Doyle Systems, LLC/Second Chance Wildlife
Center
DSFederal, Inc.
EagleBank
Federal National Commercial Credit
Foulger-Pratt
GEICO
Goodman-Gable-Gould/Adjusters
International
Havtech
Holy Cross Health
HUGHES, An EchoStar Company
Innovative Business Interiors, Inc.
Intervise, Inc.
Jim and Carol Trawick Foundation
Johns Hopkins University Montgomery
County Campus
Leonard Paper Company
Linowes and Blocher LLP
Lockheed Martin Corporation
Luis Group Management, LLC
Dunkin’ Donuts Baskin-Robbins
Jersey Mike’s Subs
M&T Bank
Managed Care Advisors
Marriott International, Inc.
MedStar Montgomery Medical Center
Mid-Atlantic Federal Credit Union
Miles & Stockbridge, P.C.
Montgomery College (2)
Montgomery County Public Schools
NIKA
Old Line Bank
Pepco, an Exelon Corporation
PilieroMazza PLLC
PNC Bank
QIAGEN
Red Coats, Inc. /Admiral Security/Datawatch
Systems
Rock Spring Centre
Smokey Glen Farm
Strategy and Management Services,
Inc. (SAMS)
Suburban Hospital
SunTrust Bank
T and T Consulting Services, Inc.
TD Bank
The Ezra Company
The Traffic Group
The Universities at Shady Grove
United Bank
United Solutions, LLC
Venable LLP
Verizon
VIKA/Richter & Associates
Visit Montgomery
Washington Adventist University
Washington Gas
White Flint
Windy City Wire Cable & Technology Products, LLC
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THANK YOU!
Bethesda Fire Department
Cabin John Volunteer Fire Department
Chevy Chase Fire Department
Gaithersburg/Washington Grove Volunteer Fire Department
Maryland National-Capital Park Police - Montgomery County Division (3)
Montgomery County Department of Correction and Rehabilitation
Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (3)
Montgomery County Maryland Police Department (4)
Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office
Silver Spring Volunteer Fire Department
MARCINE GOODLOEEVENT CONSULTANTFor 43 years of extraordinary service to the Public Safety Awards Committee.
DAVID ROLOFFMONTGOMERY COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENTFor taking the official awardee photos for the program book and award ceremony.
PATRICK LACEFIELDDAVID JEOOFFICE OF PUBLIC INFORMATION, MONTGOMERY COUNTY GOVERNMENT For providing awardee certificates.
Public Safety Agency Sponsors
43rd ANNUALPUBLIC SAFETY
AWARDS
8 9
Adventist HealthCare (2)The Bernstein Companies (2)
Clyde’s Tower Oaks LodgeDiscovery Communications (2)
Elite PersonnelGEICO
Hughes, An EchoStar CompanyRodgers Consulting, Inc.
Shulman RogersSmokey Glen Farm (2)
Sodexo, Inc.Suburban Hospital
SunTrust BankThe Lenkin CompanyThe Meltzer Group
The Universities at Shady Grove (2)The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company
VerizonWashington Suburban Sanitary Commission
Westat
BELL FLOWERSFor creating beautiful centerpieces for the event.
CENTURY DISTRIBUTORSFor supplying candy sweets on each table.
Public Safety Table Underwriters
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Jim Young, MCCC Board Chairman Vice President, Corporate Facilities,
Services and Real Estate Marriott International, Inc.
Dusty Rood, MCCC Board Chair-ElectPresident
Rodgers Consulting, Inc.
Georgette “Gigi” Godwin, President & CEOMontgomery County Chamber of Commerce
J. Thomas Manger, ChiefMontgomery County Department of Police
Luther T. Reynolds, Assistant ChiefManagement and Services Bureau
Montgomery County Department of Police
Mark Sheelor, LieutenantMontgomery County Department of Police
Sean Renauer, LieutenantMontgomery County Department of Police
Mary Alice N. Martus, Senior Executive Administrative Aide to the Chief of PoliceMontgomery County Department of Police
The Honorable Darren M. Popkin, SheriffMontgomery County Sheriff’s Office
Mark Bonanno, Chief DeputyMontgomery County Sheriff’s Office
John Bean, CaptainMontgomery County Sheriff’s Office
Scott Goldstein, Fire ChiefMontgomery County Fire & Rescue Service
John Dimitriadis, Assistant ChiefExecutive Officer, Office of the Fire Chief
Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Service
George Giebel, Office of the Fire Chief Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Service
Antonio DeVaul, ChiefMaryland-National Capital Park Police
Montgomery County Division
Rick Pelicano, CaptainMaryland-National Capital Park Police
Montgomery County Division
Robert Green, DirectorMontgomery County Department of Correction and Rehabilitation
Gail David, CaptainMontgomery County Department of Correction and Rehabilitation
Sherry L. Thompson, Senior Executive Administrative Aide to Director Green
Montgomery County Department of Correction and Rehabilitation
Terrence S. KennyMarket President, DC/Metro
TD Bank
William “Billy” Peel, IIIExecutive Vice PresidentDatawatch Systems, Inc.
James Sweet President
Smokey Glen Farm
Ellen QuinnQuality Programs Management
Northrop Grumman
Marcine GoodloeEvent Consultant
Kathleen StephanLerch, Early & Brewer, Chtd.
Linda EkizianVice President, Membership and Events
Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce
Suzanne Catucci Manager of Events
Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce
43rd Annual Public Safety Awards Committee MembersSteven A. Robins*, Chair, Public Safety Awards
Partner, Lerch, Early & Brewer, Chtd.
43rd ANNUALPUBLIC SAFETY
AWARDS
*MCCC Chair Emeritis
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43rd ANNUALPUBLIC SAFETY
AWARDS
About Public Safety Awards
The MCCC Public Safety Awards Luncheon is an outgrowth of Montgomery County Executive James P. Gleason’s Executive Order, dated April 25, 1974, establishing the official awards program in cooperation with the Montgomery County Chamber
of Commerce.
This program originally provided official recognition to Montgomery County Police Officers and Firefighter/Rescuers and Emergency Medical personnel who have performed heroic acts and community service, which go beyond the call of duty.
In December 2000, the Public Safety Awards Committee welcomed the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office and the Maryland-National Capital Park Police, Montgomery County Division. In January 2003, they welcomed the Montgomery County Department of Correction and Rehabilitation as part of the public safety awards program.
Nominations for the awards come from field supervisors through official channels to respective department administrations: Administrator, Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Service; Chief, Montgomery County Department of Police; Sheriff, Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office; Chief, Maryland-National Capital Park Police, Montgomery County Division; and Director, Montgomery County Department of Correction and Rehabilitation. The department leaders then present the nominations to the Public Safety Awards Selection Committee for final determination.
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A Tribute to Montgomery County’s Fallen Officers
Every day courageous public safety personnel dedicate their lives in protecting the people and property of Montgomery County. Unfortunately, each year members of our public safety community are seriously injured and die in the line of duty.
The Montgomery County Public Safety Memorial – the first memorial of its kind
in the County – recognizes the courage and sacrifice of our fallen public safety
personnel. It also provides visitors to the memorial an opportunity to learn
about the manner in which each of the Montgomery County Public Safety
Departments work together. The Memorial honors all of the Montgomery
County public safety agencies including Correction and Rehabilitation, Police, Fire
& Rescue Service, Park Police, and the Sheriff’s Office. The effort to create this
memorial began in 1995 with a dedicated joint public-private partnership.
Visit the Public Safety Memorial adjacent to the lake at the following address: Public Safety Headquarters | 100 Edison Park Drive | Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Montgomery County Public Safety Memorial
S E R V I C E B E F O R E S E L F
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Support the Montgomery County Public Safety scholarship fund
The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce Community Foundation (MCCCF) supports the Public Safety Scholarship Fund at Montgomery College to fund the studies of students who are children of current or past Montgomery County public safety professionals or who are studying to pursue a career in public safety. The Public Safety Scholarship at Montgomery College is your opportunity to make a difference in the lives of students and families who are giving their lives to ensure the safety of our community.
For more information and to donate, visit WWW.MCCCMD.COM/DONATE_NOW
Thank you to the 2017 Public Safety Scholarship Fund donors:
All contributions to the Montgomery County Chamber Community Foundation, a 501(c)(3) corporation, are tax-deductible.
Georgette “Gigi” Godwin, President and CEO Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce presents a donation to DeRionne P. Pollard, Ph.D. President, Montgomery College.
Christopher CarpenitoCoalition of Ignition Interlock Manufacturers
EAI Security SystemsThe Godwin Family
Neil SimonsPercontee, Inc.
The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company
14 15
Awards Criteria
Gold Medal of Valor - This premier award recognizes an act of bravery involving extreme personal risk that is clearly above and beyond the call of duty or an incident of valor that results in serious injury or death. Except in the most unusual circumstances, not more than one gold medal shall be awarded annually to each service.
Silver Medal of Valor - This award recognizes acts of bravery involving great personal risk beyond the call of duty. Bronze Medal of Valor - This award recognizes acts of bravery involving unusual personal risk beyond expectation while performing the usual responsibility. Bronze medals may also be awarded to a member who demonstrates unusual judgment, zeal, or ingenuity during an emergency situation when such an act is beyond that normally expected in the performance of duty.
Honorable Mention of Valor - This award recognizes acts of valor and acts that involve personal risk, unusual demonstration of judgment, zeal, or ingenuity not normally involved in the performance of duties.
Unit Citation - This award recognizes the outstanding collective performances of a unit or units whose professionalism and actions demonstrate excellence in response to a public safety incident.
Community Service - This special award is presented for volunteer dedication and initiative above and beyond the call of duty over a period of time that has affected and benefited the citizens of Montgomery County and beyond.
Public Safety Corporate Vital Link - This award recognizes a commercial enterprise that transforms and advances the mission of public safety agencies in Montgomery County, Maryland, to better able one or more agencies to meet the 21st century challenges that impact the National Capital region.
Public Safety Champion of the Year - This award recognizes an organization that advances the mission of public safety agencies in Montgomery County, Maryland through their advocacy.
Public Safety Government Partner of the Year - This award recognizes a Federal, State or other governmental agency that strengthens Montgomery County public safety agencies through outstanding leadership and collaboration to ensure a positive and integrated response to challenges that impact the National Capital region.
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Public Safety Government Partner of the Year
United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is an outstanding inter-governmental partner to the Public Safety Agencies in Montgomery County, Maryland. Through the investigation and prosecution of a number of complex cases, this public safety partnership has led to the arrest and sentencing
of the most dangerous offenders. The office is headed by United States Attorney Rod J. Rosenstein.
Mr. Rosenstein and his dedicated staff leverage the full weight of the federal sentencing guidelines that maintains the safety of our community.
Sponsored by:
43rd ANNUALPUBLIC SAFETY
AWARDS
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Public Safety Corporate Vital Link
Intoxalock® | LifeSafer® | Smart Start®
43rd ANNUALPUBLIC SAFETY
AWARDS
These three companies manufacture the ignition interlock device for distribution in Maryland. This device prevents drivers from starting the vehicle if a breathalyzer result registers a higher blood-alcohol level than allowed by jurisdictions. This smart technology helps keep
our roads safe. Inspired by the overwhelming response to Noah’s Law, these manufacturers developed a stamp image of Officer Leotta to be placed on every device installed in a vehicle in Maryland. This serves as a constant reminder of a tragedy that could be prevented.
Sponsored by:
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43rd ANNUALPUBLIC SAFETY
AWARDS
Public Safety Champion of the Year
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD)
On December 3, 2015, Officer Noah Leotta was struck by a drunk driver while he was conducting a traffic stop of an impaired driver. He tragically succumbed to his injuries one week later. The legislative agenda of the 2016 Maryland General Assembly Session addressed
accountability for impaired drivers known as Noah’s Law. Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) initiated a major lobbying effort within the General Assembly that was responsible for keeping Noah’s Law in the forefront of legislative actions.
MADD mobilized citizens and law enforcement officers from across the State to give testimony and provide letters of support for Noah’s Law. They stopped leadership from killing the legislation that had failed for eight years. It passed in 2016. MADD successfully championed this legislation.
Sponsored by:
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Fitzgerald’s Lakeforest Toyota
FitzMall.com
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43rd ANNUALPUBLIC SAFETY
AWARDS
All recipients since 1975 of the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce Public Safety Awards are listed on the MCCC website
www.mcccmd.com/events/public-safety-awards
Valor and Community Service Award Ceremony
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MCCC Public SafetyCommunity Service Award
43rd ANNUALPUBLIC SAFETY
AWARDS
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Sergeant Sabrina Pirtle
43rd ANNUALPUBLIC SAFETY
AWARDS
Growing up in a family with 10 kids in an impoverished Milwaukee neighborhood, Sergeant Sabrina Pirtle learned firsthand how the lack of access to a positive environment could impact one’s future. In 2014, Sergeant Pirtle - a 16 year veteran of the Maryland-National
Capital Park Police - founded JEDI Works, Incorporated. The letters of JEDI stand for Just, Educated, Discipline and Integrity.
J-Works encourages young people to help build communities, explore their talents and develop skills to support a sustainable community. J-Works has impacted hundreds of families in Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties. In addition to J-Works, Sergeant Pirtle volunteers with the Prince George’s County Court Youth Diversion Program. She mentors teenagers on life skills and career development. When teenagers successfully complete the program, their pending criminal charges are dropped.
Her involvement in JEDI Works and the Youth Diversion program is all done on her own time. Her dedication to create a better environment for our youth has made a positive and lasting difference in our community.
The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is honored to present the Park Police Chief Donald A. Deering Community Service Award to Sergeant Sabrina Pirtle.
Chief Donald A. Deering Community Service Award
43rd ANNUALPUBLIC SAFETY
AWARDS
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Critical Incident Stress Management Team
43rd ANNUALPUBLIC SAFETY
AWARDS
The Montgomery County Department of Correction and Rehabilitation protects the public by providing a wide range of constructive and professional correctional services for pre-trial and convicted detainees. In 2012, the Department developed a Critical Incident Stress Management Program. The Program responds to the escalating need to reduce employee workplace and personal stress associated their public safety profession. In 2016, Critical Incident Stress Management Team expanded to consist of twelve members led by Laurie Mombay. The Team provides mental-health first aide to a large group of staff members at the Department. They successfully develop trust with employees who increasingly reach out for help. Nimble and responsive, the team intervenes to help employees deal with their mental and emotional issues in a confidential and safe space. For the positive impact made to strengthen the emotional health of its employees, the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is honored to present a Unit Citation to the Montgomery County Department of Correction and Rehabilitation Critical Stress Management Team.
Laurie Mombay, Program Coordinator
Cynthia BoydLanora DixonAyodeji DurojaiyeLia FelkerPatricia GarveyNickolas KnowltonCarl MandeNorvin ScottAlicia VeneyWarren Wallingford
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Northampton Drive Repeat Offender
43rd ANNUALPUBLIC SAFETY
AWARDS
On New Year’s Day 2016, MCPD received a call for an assault that had occurred. The victim called in and
stated a man just pulled a handgun on him at the bus stop on Northampton Drive at Avenel Road.
Police Officer III Yves-Didier N’Kodia was working the area as part of the Alcohol Holiday Taskforce. As N’Kodia arrived, the victim immediately pointed out the suspect. As the suspect saw the N’Kodia’s police car, he began running.
The Officer gave chase and caught up to the subject. N’Kodia drew his handgun and gave verbal commands to the suspect. The suspect had his right hand in his pocket and refused to remove it. Despite repeated requests, the subject refused the Officer’s commands. Finally, the suspect removed his hands from his pocket and dropped to his knees.
N’Kodia feared that the man was armed and ordered him into a prone position until backup could arrive. For reasons unknown, the victim approached and began yelling and screaming at the suspect. N’Kodia diverted his attention toward the victim and the suspect seized the opportunity to flee towards a wood line.
N’Kodia again gave chase and caught the suspect. The suspect began to resist and N’Kodia struggled to place the man into custody. At this point, Officer Wengloski arrived to assist N’Kodia place the
suspect into custody. As N’Kodia rolled the suspect over, a handgun fell out of the suspect’s pocket.
The suspect was wanted by the United States Marshall’s Office. He was also on parole from an escape conviction in Washington, D.C. The investigation would reveal that the handgun was stolen from West Virginia. N’Kodia obtained a confession from the suspect that he bought the gun on the streets of DC. Since the suspect is a prohibited felon, this confession was critical to the case.
For repeatedly risking his life by capturing an armed suspect who was a repeat offender, the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is honored to present the Honorable Mention of Valor Award to Police Officer III Yves Didier N’Kodia.
Police Officer III Yves Didier N’KodiaHonorable Mention
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Suicide Attempt in Silver Spring
43rd ANNUALPUBLIC SAFETY
AWARDS
On June 12, 2016 at approximately 10:32 pm, Deputy Sheriff III Jason Carew and Deputy Sheriff
II Steven McDonald were out serving Domestic Violence orders in Silver Spring when a priority call was dispatched for a suspicious situation. Deputies were very close to the location of the call and arrived on scene within two minutes. Immediately upon arrival, the dispatcher put out an update that the call was being upgraded to a suicide-in-progress with a knife. The Deputies requested restricted air on the radio and attempted to enter the residence, but the door was locked and advised the dispatcher that they would breach the door. Carew kicked in the metal front door. Once inside, the Deputies cleared the front area of the apartment and came to a locked bedroom door in the back of the apartment. Carew kicked the door again. They immediately observed a female sitting on the bed with what appeared to be self-inflicted lacerations to her left wrist and forearm. The Deputies removed her from the bed to search for the knife. At this time two police officers arrived to assist. The Deputies assessed her injuries while still attempting to locate the knife. The knife was eventually found stuffed between the mattress and the box spring, within reach of where she was sitting at the time the Deputies entered the room. In light of the self-inflicted stab wounds, the Deputies completed an Emergency Evaluation Petition. Fire and Rescue Service transported her to the hospital for her physical injuries as well as her
immediate mental health care that she critically needed.
For responding with zeal above the call of duty to prevent a suicide without regard for their personal safety, the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is honored to present the Honorable Mention of Valor award to Deputy Sheriff III Jason Carew and Deputy Sheriff II Steven McDonald.
Deputy Sheriff III Jason CarewHonorable Mention
Deputy Sheriff II Steven McDonaldHonorable Mention
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Lifesaving Attempt inPre-Release Center
43rd ANNUALPUBLIC SAFETY
AWARDS
On July 30, 2016 at 12:05 am Resident Supervisor III Andre Stepp was informed that a Pre-Release Center
resident in a housing unit needed urgent medical assistance. RSIII Stepp, RSII Alicia Jackson and RSI Sana Jafarzadeh immediately responded. They found a male resident standing, shaking, sweating and experiencing breathing problems. RSI Jafarzadeh was immediately dispatched to contact 911.
Stepp tried to communicate with the resident who was only able to point toward his locker. Stepp immediately searched it and located an inhaler, but it was refused. Responders located his albuterol and assisted the resident with his machine. Stepp left the room to retrieve the resident’s medical records. Jackson remained with the man. She monitored his condition and kept the breathing mask on his face.
Now sweating profusely, the man leaned against the wall, suddenly began convulsing and slid to the floor near the lockers. Jackson immediately called over the radio for a defibrillator and attempted to move him away from the lockers to prepare him for CPR. The resident was unresponsive with an alarming amount of body fluids coming from his mouth and nose. RSII Ababio responded with the AED machine. RSI Jafarzadeh and Stepp followed. Ababio and Jafarzadeh rolled the resident on his back for CPR. Without personal protective equipment and undeterred by the transfer of body fluid, Jackson
and Stepp performed CPR. Emergency personnel arrived on scene and transported individual to the hospital, where he later died.
For their response without hesitation to a medical emergency above and beyond the call of duty and without regard to their personal safety, the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is honored to present the Honorable Mention Medal of Valor to Resident Supervisor II Alicia Jackson and Resident Supervisor III Andre Stepp.
Resident Supervisor II Alicia JacksonHonorable Mention
Resident Supervisor III Andre SteppHonorable Mention
Domestic Violence
in Germantown43rd ANNUALPUBLIC SAFETY
AWARDS
On June 25, 2016, Sergeant Manuel Saponara, Police Officer Brian Holloway, and Officer Luisa Meade
responded to a report of domestic violence. When they arrived, a woman was frantic and explained that she received a call from her sister. The woman could only hear her sister yell, “Help Me.”
The Officers knocked on the front door but received no answer. Since the sister’s car was parked outside, a decision was made to force entry. Officer Holloway kicked in a dead-bolted door. As Sergeant Saponara and Officer Holloway entered, they heard screaming from the back bedroom. When officers kicked in the bedroom door, a half-naked woman in distress fled the room. Both officers faced a psychotic and homicidal male subject. They took him into custody at gun point without injury.
The investigation revealed that the woman’s son was having a psychotic episode. He believed his mother was going to hire someone to kill him. After ingesting rubbing alcohol, he told her he was going to rape and kill her. The victim was able to call her sister, but her son pulled her into the bedroom and began sexually assaulting her. The victim suffered numerous injuries including bite wounds and strangulation marks. She stated to officers that had they not kicked in the doors, her son would have killed her.
For the demonstration of judgement and zeal by kicking in two doors to stop an assault that most likely saved a life, the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is honored to present the Honorable Mention of Valor to Sergeant Manuel Saponara and Police Officer III Brian Holloway.
Sergeant Manuel SaponaraHonorable Mention
Police Officer Brian HollowayHonorable Mention
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Suicide Attempt in Germantown
43rd ANNUALPUBLIC SAFETY
AWARDS
On August 1, 2016, Montgomery County Police received a call from a distraught mother that
her daughter was threatening suicide. The girl had cut herself and obtained a rope. The mother warned the dispatcher that razor blades were “all over the place.”
Police Officer III Dale Steffen and Police Officer III Michael Riley were the first to arrive. As they approached the daughter’s room, she exited the window to the roof. Police Officer III Bob Hunt arrived and immediately went to the rear of the home. Fearing the girl would jump, Officer Steffen exited the window and climbed onto the roof.
On the roof, the subject walked towards the rear of the home and saw Officer Hunt. She immediately turned and saw Officer Steffen. As the subject began to run to the edge, Officer Steffen ran towards her and was able stop her from jumping. Officer Steffen tackled and handcuffed her. Despite being handcuffed, the girl continued to struggle to jump.
Officer Riley joined Officer Steffen on the roof and both restrained the girl until the Fire and Rescue Service could arrive with a basket stretcher. The girl was lowered to the ground and taken to the hospital.
Police Officer III Dale Steffen faced grave danger as he tackled and restrained a suicidal subject on the roof of a home. The officer and the girl could have been severely injured or killed in a fall.
For risking his own life to save another, the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is honored to present the Honorable Mention of Valor Award to Police Officer III Dale Steffen.
Police Officer III Dale Steffen
Honorable Mention
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On May 5, 2016, a Federal Police Officer named Eulailio Tordil stalked his estranged wife on the grounds of High Point High School in Beltsville. As the two began arguing, a witness tried to intercede. Tordil produced a gun and shot the Good Samaritan. Tordil then
murdered his wife and fled the area.
The Prince George’s County Police Department issued a warrant and attempted to locate Tordil. Based on his police training, Tordil left his cell phone and personal vehicle behind in an attempt to avoid capture. Prince George’s County Police developed a flyer on Tordil to include a possible rental vehicle and distributed the information to local law enforcement.
The next day, on May 6, 2016 at 11:13 a.m., Police Officer III David Kocevar arrived at Montgomery Mall to participate in a Mall Theft Prevention Blitz detail. While parking, Kocevar heard gunshots, exited his vehicle and ran toward the shooting. Tordil saw the Officer and immediately fled in a vehicle. Kocevar gave a lookout and began treating the three wounded victims. Kocevar provided medical materials to a Good Samaritan doctor who was treating one victim and began treating another.
One of the victims told Detectives that he heard a woman screaming. As he came to help her, Tordil appeared and shot his friend. He began to run, but Tordil shot him four times. As he slumped down near the wheel well of a vehicle, Tordil started to approach him. The victim told detectives, “He was coming to finish me off. If the officer wasn’t there, I would be dead.”
Corporal Peter Camp, Police Officers III Aaron Bailey, John Cabala, Arnold Aubrey, Edward “Teddy” Tamulevich, and Lieutenant Michael Ruane responded and provided emergency tactical first aid to the victims before the Fire and Rescue Service arrived. Fire and Rescue were able to save the lives of two of the three victims.
Detectives from the Repeat Offenders Unit heard the lookout and recognized the disturbing similarities with the homicide in Prince George’s County and alerted Homicide Detectives. A possible lookout for Tordil and his vehicle was placed by detectives.
Deadly Shooting Spree in Prince George’s and Montgomery Counties
43rd ANNUALPUBLIC SAFETY
AWARDS
Continued on the next page
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At the Aspen Hill Shopping Center Giant supermarket, Maryland-National Capital Park Police Acting Detective Sergeant Caleb Garcia heard the sound of shots fired in the parking lot. With no regard for his safety, Garcia ran to the parking lot and located a female victim suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Garcia checked for vital signs and determined there were no signs of life. Detective Garcia quickly radioed the incident into police communications and requested EMS and additional police units.
After numerous Park Police officers and Police units arrived on scene, Detective Garcia coordinated perimeter assignments. He also located and separated numerous witnesses to the homicide. While the information was still fresh in the witnesses’ minds, Garcia instructed them to complete written witness statements prior to the arrival of homicide investigators. It was determined that Tordil attempted to carjack the woman. When she resisted, Tordil shot and killed her and fled to an adjoining shopping center.
The Montgomery County Police Repeat Offenders Unit (ROU) Detectives decided to deploy to the area of the Aspen Hill Giant.
At Northgate Shopping Center, Detective Donnie Oaks picked up on the vehicle Tordil was suspected of driving. Oaks observed Tordil in the Dunkin’ Donuts seated strategically to observe the entrance to the store and parking lot outside. Oaks knew there were too many civilians in the area to engage Tordil in a gun fight.
As more ROU detectives arrived, they formulated a plan to take down Tordil as he returned to his vehicle. Contingency plans were also developed in case Tordil decided to shoot another innocent person. Tordil then entered a Michael’s store. Detectives remained unable to safely arrest him without significant risk to customers. Tordil then moved to the Boston Market and took up a tactical position. ROU Detectives continued to wait.
Finally, Tordil let down his guard and returned to his vehicle. Once Tordil entered his driver’s seat, detectives executed a perfect tactical block and Tordil was pinned in his vehicle. With guns drawn, ROU detectives would now anxiously wait as Tordil finally surrendered.
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For the demonstration of bravery to run towards gunfire and treat wounds to save lives of victims in an unstable scene, the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is honored to present the Bronze Medal of Valor to Police Officer III David Kocevar.
Police Officer III David Kocevar
Bronze
For the demonstration of great judgement in tactical planning to keep the public safe while in the line of fire of a well-trained killer, the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is honored to present the Bronze Medal of Valor to the members of the Montgomery County Police Department Repeat Offenders Unit.
Police Officer III David KocevarBronze
Sergeant Brady ClouserBronze
Corporal Jeffrey RachaelBronze
Detective Donnie OaksBronze
Detective Kenneth HalterBronze
Detective Roger St. LouisBronze
Detective Thomas TippettBronze
Detective Richard VolpeBronze
Detective Charles BullockBronze
Detective Dominic DinisioBronze
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Shooterin Clarksburg
43rd ANNUALPUBLIC SAFETY
AWARDS
On Saturday, October 1, 2016 at 15:36 hours, Corporal Johnny Beason responded to a priority call.
The caller had been in a dispute with his neighbor who was now walking outside the house with a rifle and had already fired numerous shots.
The first on the scene, Corporal Beason immediately encountered an adult male walking in the driveway carrying a rifle. Beason quickly exited his vehicle, drew his gun and ordered the subject to drop his weapon. Taking cover behind a tree, Beason continued to give the order. The subject refused and became verbally confrontational and fled into a garage.
Beason then observed a woman walking in the driveway, later identified as the subject’s girlfriend. Beason called her over to him behind the tree. The suspect re-emerged now armed with a handgun. Pointing the handgun at Beason, the man yelled profanities and told the Corporal to shoot him. Beason refrained and pulled the woman to safety behind the tree using his body as a shield. He tried to move them away from danger but their path was blocked by bushes. The suspect continued towards them then dropped the handgun to the ground yelling at Beason to shoot him. The suspect armed with a loaded rifle then reached to the ground to retrieve the handgun.
Beason held the suspect at gun point, deployed his Taser with his opposite hand incapacitating him. He fell to the ground and dropped the rifle. Beason quickly moved into a position that prevented the suspect from reaching either weapon. Back-up officers arrived and assisted Beason with placing the suspect in custody.
The handgun and rifle recovered were found to be loaded with a full magazine. The suspect may have attempted to fire the handgun at Beason, but there was no round in the chamber.
For the act of bravery involving great personal risk and the demonstration of judgement and tremendous restraint to save lives, the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is honored to present the Silver Medal of Valor to Corporal Johnny Beason.
Corporal Johnny BeasonSilver
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On August 11, 2016, an explosion and fire at the Flower Branch Apartments took the lives of seven residents. Nearly 40 people were treated at local hospitals and over 70 families were displaced. Absent the heroic and quick thinking actions of public safety
responders, more lives would have been lost.
In the aftermath of this tragedy, the Montgomery County Department of Police and the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service identified several initial responders whose actions, within the first 10 minutes of the explosion, typified response “above and beyond the call of duty.”
The actions of these responders established the foundation for what ultimately resulted: an extraordinary exhibition of public safety response where traditional roles and responsibilities were occasionally melded, or exchanged, to maximize life preservation and minimize human suffering.
There is no doubt that the expert and coordinated response of police and fire and rescue saved lives.
For their collective efforts and for having demonstrated quick and decisive decision-making in the face of a chaotic and dangerous scene, the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is honored to present the Unit Citation of Valor to the Montgomery County Department of Police 3rd District Patrol Officers.
Flower Branch Apartment Fire
43rd ANNUALPUBLIC SAFETY
AWARDS
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DCATSergeant Troy BrennerCorporal Jason HalkoPOIII Jarrett KingPOIII Daniel Fitzpatrick
Shift 3 HenryPOII Maxie Weisz
Shift 7Sergeant Douglas CarrPOIII Christopher SorianoPOII Christopher KemblePOII Patrick KeepPOI Heather HaynesPOI Kevin Crowley
Shift 4 HenrySergeant Paul BandholzPOIII Steven GoldbergPOII Brandi BarberPOII Michael Wengloski
Shift 4 IdaPOII Michael DamskeyPOII Michael HerdaPOI Gregory Pagonis
Shift 4 GeorgePOII Cody FieldsPOII Keven ArguetaPOI Nathan BushPOI Jacob ZaikaPOII Joshua Swecker
While in an off-duty capacity and while facing considerable danger, Police Officer III Jeffrey Hughes risked his life to enter a burning and partially collapsed building to evacuate injured residents. The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is honored to present the Silver Medal of Valor to Police Officer III Jeffrey Hughes.
Police Officer III Jeffrey Hughes
Silver
For their efforts in mitigating disaster in the first 10 minutes of this tragedy, the following officers of the Montgomery County Department of Police are recognized:
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Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service personnel were faced with two buildings engulfed in flames, one of which collapsed in its center. In unison and under extremely stressful circumstances, MCFRS personnel translated rapid decision-making to life-saving actions. No less than three lives were preserved because they engaged their training, experience, instinct, and resources without regarding they too could have become casualties of a tragic event.
For their collective efforts in conducting ladder rescues at a building posing high potential for further and immediate collapse of additional load-bearing walls and other structural components, the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is honored to present the Unit Citation of Valor to these members of the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service.
Representing the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service are:
Captain William Cooke (Truck 716)Fire Fighter Rescuer III Enrique Escolero (Truck 716)Fire Fighter Rescuer III David Wakeley (Paramedic Engine 701)
Fire Fighter Rescuer III David Braun
Bronze
Soon after arriving on the scene at Arliss Street and while engaged in initial rescue efforts, Fire Fighter Rescuer III David Braun sustained a significant shoulder injury. Despite considerable pain, his mobility being adversely affected, and these factors not being known to his officer and his crew, Fire Fighter Braun did not withdraw. Instead, he continued to assist with ladder rescues and eventually transitioned, with his officer, to the even more dangerous work of interior search and rescue operations.
In recognition of the great personal risk he faced while significantly injured in a well-involved and structurally comprised fire building, the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is honored to present the Bronze Medal of Valor to Fire Fighter Rescuer III David Braun.
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ontgomery County
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The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) is the voice of advocacy and the trusted source on policy and best practices for Montgomery County, Metro Maryland, the Greater Washington Region and beyond. Our active membership includes small to
large organizations representing a wide range of industries. Through effective advocacy, programs and events, MCCC positions its members to succeed in business.
SAVE THE DATE
TUESDAY, JUNE 13, 2017 MCCC 58th Annual Dinner
Bethesda North Marriott Hotel and County Conference Center
MONDAY, JULY 17, 2017 Montgomery County Chamber Community Foundation
Veteran Institute for Procurement Fundraising Golf TournamentLakewood Country Club, Rockville
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2017 MCCC 2017 Business Awards Dinner
Bethesda North Marriott Hotel and County Conference Center
To learn more about MCCC membership, programs and events as well as the Montgomery County Chamber Community Foundation,
visit www.mcccmd.com
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ontgomery County
The Chamber is a 501(c)(6) and the Foundation is a 501(c)(3). Both are independent organizations and are seperate from any national, state, local chamber
or other organization. ©2017 All Rights Reserved.
Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce 51 Monroe Street | Suite 1800 | Rockville, MD 20850 | 301-738-0015 • www.mcccmd.com
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