For Thwarting Burglary Attempt, New Britain Township Officer Commended

NEW BRITAIN TOWNSHIP, PA — New Britain Township Patrol Officer First Class Paul Zielinski was recognized on Oct. 17 with an Officer Citation of Commendation for the arrest of a felon during the commission of a burglary at a township business.

The citation was presented for his "dedication to duty, professionalism, and investigative skills that lead to the arrest of a burglar whose acts may have gone undetected and further prevented a business in the township from being victimized."

In the early morning hours of Sept. 21 PFC Zielinski was working the night shift when he observed a suspicious vehicle with trash strewed around it and no one in sight in the parking lot of Mavis Discount Tires.

"Finding this not to be normal, the exterior of the building was checked and an employee entrance door was found unsecured," said Chief Richard Clowser. "Officer Zielinski was confronted by an intoxicated subject claiming to be an employee.

"The business manager was contacted and confirmed that the person had no permission to be inside the business after hours an entrance was found unsecured and a subject, who was not authorized to be in the business, was located and arrested."

As Chief Clowser presented the Citation of Commendation to Officer Zielinski, applause filled the meeting room.