NJ Cops | Page 64

Local 187 honors Sheriff’s Officer of the Year Mercer County Sheriff’s Officers Local 187 honored its 2015 Officer of the Year, Officer Michael Orlando, on May 15 at the Mercer County Criminal Courthouse. The 16-year veteran assigned to the Sheriff’s Court Division exemplifies the merits of an officer who exceeds expectations dayin and day-out, overseeing the processing, movement and securing of inmates and those awaiting trial. Orlando processes more than 100 individuals every week in a safe and secure manner without any major incidents under his watch. During the awards ceremony, Mercer County Sunshine Foundation President Cathy DiCostanzo presented a proclamation to all the officers of the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office and Local 187 for their support in sending three children to Operation Dream Lift, and honored Mercer County Sheriff Jack Kemler and his wife Annette for their dedication to the foundation. Sheriff Kemler presented Line of Duty Awards to sworn officers, investigators and detectives who have excelled in making Mercer County and its courthouses safe. “These awards speak volumes to each officer’s commitment, professionalism and valor. Their dedication to serve the public is an inspiration to the residents of Mercer County,” said Sheriff Kemler. The Medal of Honor went to Detective William Miller for assisting Trenton Police Detectives Edgar Rios and James Letts on a domestic violence assignment that erupted in gunfire. Officer Anthony Conway received the Gallantry Medal and Officers Ralph MacKelvey and Anibal Santos were recognized with a Lifesaving Medal. Officer Vito Vacirca and Lieutenant Harry Harbourt each received Achievement Medals for working with the Special Olympics. Letters of Commendation went to Officers David Smithson, Pat Papero and Thomas Sweeney for assisting the Ewing Police Department in finding a missing person. Officers Jennifer Lynn, Joel Adams, Peter Novobilsky, Marc Manfredi and Dennis Powlish each earned the Military Award for their honorable service. The Recognition Award went to the Airport Unit, and Years of Service Awards were presented to officers with 10, 15 and 25 years of the job. d Mercer County Sheriff Jack Kemler and Sheriff’s Officer of the Year Michael Orlando. 64 NEW JERSEY COPS ■ JUNE 2015