Southampton's Hero Cops Honored by Bridget Fleming

SOUTHAMPTON, NY - Three of Southampton's top cops were recognized for their heroism and life-saving actions last week.

On Tuesday, Suffolk County Legislator Bridget Fleming honored the trio at the legislature’s general meeting.

Fleming presented each officer with a proclamation for bravery, courage, and altruistic actions, which all resulted in a life being saved.

Southampton Town Police Officer Erik Breitwieser, Kristian LoRusso, and Keith Phillips were the three recipients of the honor.

Officer Breitwieser was recognized for saving a person trapped in a burning car, while Officer LoRusso was honored for reviving an unresponsive one-year-old infant, and Officer Philips was lauded for reviving a man who'd overdosed on heroin. The officers were joined by Southampton Town Police Chief Robert Pearce, who recently announced his upcoming retirement, and Southampton PBA President Kevin Gwinn.

Fleming said she was proud of the three officers and reminded the other 17 members of the legislature how important it was for the officers of the East End to be recognized for a job well done.

“I am proud to have an opportunity to bring attention to the courageous and professional work of these three officers, and to give them the recognition they deserve,” said Fleming. "We are fortunate on the East End to be served by outstanding local police departments.”

Chief Pearce praised the officers for their efforts.

“I am extremely proud of Officers Breitweiser, LoRusso and Phillips for their life-saving efforts . . . and I offer my thanks to the county legislature for recognizing their actions today with the presentations of these proclamations,” he said.

“On behalf of the Southampton Town Patrolman's Benevolent Association, I would like to thank Legislator Bridget Fleming, as well as the entire Suffolk County Legislature, for recognizing the efforts of the Southampton Town Police Department," Gwinn added. "The efforts of these three officers is a testament to the high caliber of policing here in Southampton Town and on the East End of Long Island."