Smithtown Honors Officers For Heroism, Lifesaving Rescues

SMITHTOWN, NY — The Town of Smithtown honored members of its Department of Public Safety on Wednesday during the town’s annual Public Safety Awards Ceremony, recognizing acts of bravery, lifesaving rescues, leadership and community service performed over the past year.

The ceremony, held at Town Hall during National Police Week, included promotions, departmental recognitions and the presentation of the department’s highest honor, the 2026 Peace Officer of the Year Award.

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“We are incredibly fortunate to have some of the finest, most dedicated officers serving our community,” Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim said. “Today’s honorees exemplify courage, professionalism, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to serving the people of Smithtown.”

The ceremony began with the promotion of Matthew Raia from fire marshal to senior fire marshal. Town officials recognized Raia for his leadership and experience in fire prevention and investigations throughout the town.

Honorees included Karen Sylvester, Brett Bailey, George Godberson and Bryan Sinclair.

“Each year, this ceremony serves as a powerful reminder of the extraordinary men and women who wear this badge with honor,” said Town Councilman and liaison to the Department of Public Safety Tom Lohmann during the ceremony. “I could not be more proud of this department and the selfless dedication, courage, and professionalism our officers demonstrate every single day.”

Among the most recognized officers of the day was Sgt. Brendan Dennihy, who received two separate Meritorious Service Awards before later being named the department’s 2026 Peace Officer of the Year. Department officials said Dennihy’s nomination was unanimously supported by command staff and reflected the respect he has earned throughout the department.

One award recognized Dennihy’s response to a residential fire in Kings Park on Dec. 16, 2025. According to the town, Dennihy arrived before fire personnel and entered the smoke-filled home with a fire extinguisher in an effort to help contain a rapidly spreading kitchen fire until firefighters arrived.

Dennihy and Fire Marshal Kyle McCarthy were also honored for removing an illegally loaded firearm from the streets during a patrol operation near the Kings Park Hike and Bike Trail on April 4. Their actions led to the arrest of multiple suspects on weapons charges, officials said.

“Sergeant Dennihy has distinguished himself over the course of the year and exemplifies the qualities associated with being a dedicated law enforcement professional,” Lohmann said. “His steadfast commitment to the department made him the clear choice for this recognition.”

Park Ranger Leyland Crocilla received a Meritorious Service Award for his response during the January 2026 blizzard, when he helped rescue a father and son who had fallen through the ice at Gibbs Pond Town Park amid whiteout conditions. Officials said Crocilla arrived first on scene and helped prevent a tragedy through his quick response and calm actions.

The Department Recognition Award was presented to members of the Old Northport Road Task Force for efforts addressing zoning, maintenance and quality-of-life concerns along the industrial corridor.

Since September 2024, the task force has issued 172 summonses while working alongside the town attorney’s office, planning department and building department to improve compliance and revitalize blighted properties, according to the town.

“True peace officers are defined not only by their training and resilience, but by their integrity, compassion, and courage under pressure,” Lohmann said. “On behalf of the entire Smithtown community, thank you for standing watch with honor, strength, and an unwavering commitment to the people you serve.”