3 Rockland Corrections Officers Thanked for Life-Saving Acts

Three Rockland County Correction Officers received Certificates of Recognition before the start of Tuesday night’s meeting of the Rockland County Legislature.

Rockland County Legislator Lon Hofstein presented them to Officers Michael Ferguson, William Lopez, and Juan Gonzalez for their acts of bravery and valor while on duty.

Hofstein said Ferguson saved the life of an inmate at the Rockland County Jail who attempted suicide, and Lopez saved the life of a nurse who was being violently assaulted by a psychiatric patient in Nyack Hospital. Gonzalez also saved the life of a different inmate at the Rockland County Jail who attempted suicide.

“We often read reports of crimes that have been committed, but rarely do we take the time to think about who watches over these criminals after they are caught, and what they endure on a daily basis,” Hofstein said. “I was proud to have the opportunity to express our gratitude and honor these three Rockland County Corrections Officers for the work they have done and continue to do to protect us all.”

PHOTO: Legislator Hofstein presenting an award to Officer Michael Ferguson. Behind them L-R: John Cocuzza, President of the Rockland County Correction Officers Benevolent Association, Richard McNichols, Vice President of the Rockland County Correction Officers Benevolent Association, Officer William Lopez, Legislator Chris Carey, Chairman of the Legislature Alden H. Wolfe/contributed