Police Officers, Dispatchers Lauded In East Hampton

EAST HAMPTON, NY — East Hampton Town Police officers and public safety dispatchers were recognized for their dedication and hard work with 2021 department awards recently.

East Hampton Town Police Chief Michael Sarlo, at the recommendation of police department's award committee, issued the awards to 15 officers and three public safety dispatchers, Sarlo said.

All were recognized for "outstanding and dedicated acts of professional policing" and received award bars to wear above their shields.

According to Sarlo, highlights of the work performed by those honored included Officer of the Year James Gesa, who "assisted with a major narcotics and weapons investigation while leading patrol in overall and felony arrests, and handling the second-most calls for service."

In addition, Sarlo said, two separate armed individuals threatening to hurt themselves were disarmed and taken into custody without injury; two lives were saved by CPR and Narcan; occupants of a vehicle fire were rescued; and Police Officer Tyler Gilbride led the department in handling 807 calls throughout the year.

Officers honored include:

Police Officer of the Year: Police Officer James Gesa

Department Recognition: PO Ross Hamilton; PO Joseph Izzo; PO Nick Lloyd; PO David Martin; PO Michelle Miller; PO James Patterson; and PO Denis Shea.

Excellent Police Service Award: PO James Gesa and PO Andrea Kess.

Meritorious Police Service Award: Detective Dave Orlando.

Chief's Recognition Award: PO James Gesa; PO Tyler Gilbride; PO Bradley Hughes; PO Andrea Kess; PSD Stephen Graham; PSD Darlene Semlear; and PSD Patrick Harden.

Lifesaving Award: PO Phil Marino; PO Robert Lucas; and PO Patrick Royal.

"2021 was again a challenge for our officers and law enforcement across the country," Sarlo said. "We are proud of their efforts, as many acts of bravery, professionalism and diligent investigation were performed by our officers during 2021 and we are proud to recognize them."