Police Officer Praised For ‘Heroic Actions’ During Incident At North Haven Middle School

NORTH HAVEN, CT — School Resource Officer Bob DePalma was recognized for his recent “heroic actions” during an incident at North Haven Middle School, according to officials.

North Haven Middle School Principal Laurie Bankowski praised DePalma for his role in a medical incident that happened in the school parking lot, according to the minutes of last month’s Board of Police Commissioners Meeting.

Police Chief Andrew Stavrides said he received a letter from Bankowski praising DePalma.

She said how impressed she was by his “calm demeanor, his professionalism and ability to lead in a crisis,” according to the minutes.

During the meeting, Stavrides said he also received a letter from a resident who was a fraud victim.

“She expressed her deep gratitude for the remarkable assistance of Officer Tommy Durant,” the minutes state. “She praised his compassion, kindness, support and professionalism.”

Stavrides said he also received a letter from a Spring Road resident who “expressed his sincere gratitude to Officer Matt Ferrucci.”

“The resident’s son tripped, fell and injured his face across the street from the Police Department,” according to the meeting minutes. “They came to the police department lobby where they were met by officer Ferrucci. The resident praised the professionalism and compassion shown by Officer Ferrucci stating Ferrucci treated his son as if it was his own child.”