6 New Hope Officers Honored With Life Saving, Merit Awards

NEW HOPE BOROUGH, PA — The New Hope Borough Police Department recognized six of its officers Tuesday night for going above and beyond the call of duty and for exceptionalism in the performance of their duties.

Chief Kevin Edwards joined Mayor Larry Keller at the podium to publicly recognize the officers for their response to two incidents in the borough. But first the chief commended his entire department, which he said "performs exceptional service to the community ... day in and day out, night after night serving everyone 24 hours a day and doing an excellent job."

Chief Edwards presented the first commendations for life saving to Officers Austin McLeod, Steve Gruber and Ken Kozukowski, recognizing them for their "decisive and effective response" during an incident in November.

On Nov. 7, the officers responded to the report of an overdose on South Main Street. Upon their arrival, they located the victim, promptly assessed the situation and quickly determined that the victim was suffering from an overdose. They quickly administered the overdose drug, Narcan.

"Their swift actions allowed the victim to regain consciousness and normal breathing at which time medics arrived and transported the victim to Doylestown Hospital for further treatment," said the chief. "Without their lifesaving actions, this person probably would not have survived this overdose incident."

Mayor Larry Keller and Chief Kevin Edwards presents a Commendation of Merit to Cpl. Dawn Haas, Cpt. James Giovinazzo, Officer Cole Midwood and Officer Steve Gruber. (Jeff Werner/Patch)

Chief Edwards next recognized Cpl. Dawn Haas, Cpt. James Giovinazzo, Officer Cole Midwood and Officer Steve Gruber with the department's commendation of merit for taking on an exceptional investigation and bringing it to a close with a conviction.

On May 20, the officers began an investigation into threats of violence made against teachers at the New Hope-Solebury High School.

"Through their diligence and teamwork they conducted a thorough investigation that led to the identification, arrest and conviction of the individual responsible for making those threats," said the chief.

"Their actions in the case not only ensured the safety of our community but upholds the highest standards of our department," said the chief. "Their professionalism and teamwork reflects great credit on the New Hope Borough Police Department."

Chief Edwards concluded the public recognition by acknowledging Cpl. Dawn Haas on her 20th anniversary with the department.

"It takes a very dedicated person to come in here day after day, night after night and seeing things most people never want to see in their lifetime," said the chief. "It takes a very dedicated person to do that. It's an amazing feat. Tonight I'd like to recognize Cpl. Haas as she celebrates 20 years of service to the New Hope Borough Police Department."

Cpl. Dawn Haas is thanked for her 20 years of service with the department by Mayor Larry Keller and Police Chief Kevin Edwards.