Police Officer of the Month

Each month, one or more officers of the 7th District are recognized as "Officer of the Month" for outstanding service to the community. The chosen officers are invited to the next monthly luncheon meeting of the P.D.A.C. where they are presented with a custom plaque and various city and state citations honoring their achievement. The P.D.A.C. wishes to extend its sincere appreciation to Mission BBQ, Redeemer Senior Living, Somerton Jewelers, Texas Road House and Wawa for their support in honoring our Police Officers of the Month.

This page will periodically be updated with information on the latest winners.

On Friday, December 27, 2024 Police Officer William Hoppe was on patrol in the area of Audubon and Tomlinson Avenues when he observed a white Kia Sedan disregard a posted stop sign. P/O Hoppe attempted to stop the vehicle but the operator failed to initially pull over, however did so on the 11200 block of Audubon Ave. While conversing with the operator, a second male approached the officer informing him that the operator of the white Kia was involved in a road rage incident and that the male operating the white Kia was armed with a firearm.

P/O Hoppe was able to have the operator of the Kia exit the vehicle and, during the officer’s roadside interview, the operator became extremely agitated and a struggle ensued. P/O Hoppe immediately called for backup. The second male assisted P/O Hoppe in restraining the offender until backup arrived. During the struggle, a black firearm with an obliterated serial number fell from the offender’s pants onto the ground. Backup officers were able to recover the firearm without further incident. Further investigation revealed the offender is prohibited from owning any firearms and was charged with firearm and related offenses.

During the entire encounter, Officer Hoppe displayed a professional demeanor while remaining tactically proficient in arresting an armed felon. It is for the reasons stated we are proud to recognize Officer William Hoppe as our Police Officer of the Month for December, 2024.

On Tuesday, October 29, 2024, the Philadelphia Police Major Crimes Auto Squad and Northeast Detectives issued a bulletin to identify a Black female suspect dressed in all black who vandalized a shopping center on Krewstown Road and damaged an unmarked police vehicle (D-7) by throwing a boulder through its rear window.

On the same day, Police responded to a disturbance at 10107 Verree Road, where the complainant reported a woman acting strangely in her business and later refusing to get out of her parked car. Officers arrived, removed the woman from the vehicle, and assessed that she was experiencing a mental health crisis, eventually taking her home to her parents.

Officer Mitchell, working as the Operations Room Assistant, recognized the similarities between Turner and the suspect in the bulletin. After reviewing Body-worn camera footage, it was confirmed to be the same individual. Officer Mitchell alerted Northeast Detectives, who are investigating both incidents.

Thanks to Officer Mitchell's attention to detail and her effective communication skills, this offender has been identified. We firmly believe that Officer Mitchell's actions were crucial in identifying this wanted individual, who might have remained unidentified otherwise, thereby enhancing the safety of the citizens in the 7th Police District. This instance is just the latest example of the high-quality police work performed by the Philadelphia Police Department. For her outstanding actions, Officer Sherrelle Mitchell deserves to be recognized by her peers and the community she serves. As such, we are proud to recognize her as Police Officer of the Month for November, 2024.

On Friday, October 11th, Officer Walker #2416 responded to a radio call reporting a person screaming in the 9500 block of Evans St. Upon arrival, he was met by a witness who stated that a female inside the residence was being assaulted by her husband.

Officer Walker knocked on the door and was met by a male later identified as the defendant. When Officer Walker asked to speak to his wife, the defendant replied, "No." At that moment, Officer Walker noticed the complainant standing at the back of the hallway. He observed a large bump on her forehead and a red mark on the bridge of her nose. The female confirmed that the defendant was responsible for her injuries. As Officer Walker attempted to place the defendant under arrest, the defendant began to resist and struggle. After a brief struggle, Officer Walker was able to successfully arrest the defendant.

Thanks to Officer Walker's keen observations, he was able to rescue the complainant from a violent domestic abuser, preventing her from sustaining any further injuries at the hands of the defendant.

Officer Walker demonstrated excellent observation skills and maintained a calm, professional demeanor during this incident, which led to the arrest of a violent domestic abuser. His actions exemplify the qualities expected of a Philadelphia Police Officer. As such, we are proud to recognize P/O Joseph Walker as our Police Officer of the Month for October, 2024.

On Monday, August 26 at approximately 10:40 AM, it was reported that a known male offender came to the Boost Mobile Store at 829 Adams Avenue. The male customer became aggressive towards the complainant and threatened to harm her. The complainant hit the panic/robbery alarm. 2nd District officers responded after the offender had already fled the location. Prior to the offender leaving, he took (5) phones from the display case, worth a total of $500 USC. The complainant was not injured and there were no weapons used.

On Tuesday, September 3rd, Officer Wolford received information from Northeast Detectives regarding a male suspect wanted for the aforementioned robbery, believed to be residing in the 8700 block of Frontenac Street. After several unsuccessful attempts to locate the individual were made, Officer Wolford obtained a copy of the arrest warrant and was subsequently able to locate and apprehend the suspect without incident.

The defendant was subsequently arrested and charged with multiple crimes, including Robbery, Theft, Terroristic Threats, and Reckless Endangerment.

Officer Wolford demonstrated exceptional communication skills and teamwork while collaborating with Northeast Detectives to locate and safely apprehend this violent offender. His efforts ensured the suspect's removal from the streets of Philadelphia without posing any danger to the public. These actions exemplify the qualities expected of a Philadelphia Police Officer.

On 8/22/24 at approximately 8:35am, Officer Szczepkowski responded to a radio call of a person with a gun in the 400 block of Pinewood Rd. The caller/witness stated that the offender was involved in a dispute with the complainant. The caller further stated that offender had struck complainant in the head with a wooden stick as well as discharged a handgun in his direction. Upon Police arrival Officer Szczepkowski encountered complainant who confirmed that offender did strike him in the head with a wooden cane as well as fired a shot from a handgun in his direction. Complainant further stated that offender, after firing the shot, reached down and picked up the spent shell casing before entering his residence in the 10000 block of Ferndale St. While on location Officer Szczepkowski observed offender open the basement door of the residence at which time Szczepkowski ordered him to step outside. He refused the officer’s order and closed the door. Officer Szczepkowski continued to order him outside through the closed door. After a few minutes he opened the door and exited the property where he was handcuffed and taken into custody. 7th District Officers cleared and secured the property and awaited the arrival of Northeast Detectives. Once on location, Detectives conducted interviews and gathered video evidence, the offender’s property was held pending a search warrant. Later that day a Search Warrant was executed at which time two handguns were recovered as well the wooden cane and one 9mm spent shell casing from a trash can inside the property. All of the items were placed on property receipts.

It was later discovered that the same offender had been involved in a separate incident on 12/7/23 in the evening at or near 400 Pinewood Rd. The complainant had left his residence in his vehicle when the offender began to follow him in his own vehicle. Offender began to flash his vehicles light bar at complainant in an attempt the get his attention. Complainant stopped his vehicle, offender pulled up alongside and stated “You Pedophile, I’ll get you, I’ll blow your brains out.”

On 8/2/24 complainant was driving east on his block on Pinewood Rd, He drove past offender who was standing in his own driveway holding a rifle and pointing it in the direction of complainant.

Northeast Detectives served a second search warrant at offender’s residence at which time the rifle was recovered and placed on a property receipt.

The offender was subsequently charged with Aggravated Assault (F), VUFA-No License (F3), VUFA-Former Convict (F2), PIC (M1), Terroristic Threats (M1) and REAP (M2).

It is due to the initial Officers swift response, his ability to quickly gather information, and disseminate it to other responding officers that a dangerous, wanted male was taken off the streets who continued to prey and victimize the residents of the 400 block of Pinewood Rd. The actions taken by Officer Szczepkowski to apprehend this dangerous felon ultimately ended this reign of terror being committed, making the residents as well as all of the citizens of the 7th District in Philadelphia safer. It is for these actions that we are proud to recognize Officer Stephen Szczepkowski #6826 as our Police Officer of the Month for August, 2024.

On Thursday, July 18th, Officer George Rodriguez #2961 responded to a radio call regarding a child reportedly shot inside a residence. Upon arriving at the location, Officer Rodriguez quickly determined that the child had not been shot but was, in fact, having a seizure. The child was unresponsive and shaking uncontrollably.

Officer Rodriguez immediately picked up the child and drove him and his parents to Nazareth Hospital. While en route, Officer Rodriguez used exceptional driving skills to safely and quickly transport the child to the hospital, where he could receive the necessary treatment. Throughout the drive, Officer Rodriguez maintained a professional demeanor, helping to calm the parents during this medical emergency.

Thanks to the direct actions taken by Officer Rodriguez, the child arrived swiftly at the hospital, was treated by doctors, and was released. The child is expected to make a full recovery.

Officer Rodriguez demonstrated incredibly quick thinking and maintained a calm and professional demeanor during this incident, which directly resulted in the child receiving the necessary medical attention. These actions exemplify the qualities expected of a Philadelphia Police Officer.

It for these reasons that we are proud to recognize P/O George Rodriguez as our Police Officer of The Month for July, 2024.

On Friday, June 7th, P/O Farrell #5272 was traveling northbound on Bustleton Ave. when he observed a white Land Rover operating recklessly, aggressively trying to overtake other vehicles. P/O Farrell read the vehicle's license plate to police radio, and it was confirmed to be wanted for fleeing and eluding police. At this point, P/O Farrell got behind the vehicle and communicated its location and direction of travel to coordinate with additional officers in the area, minimizing civilian traffic before attempting to pull the vehicle over.

Once sufficient police personnel were in the vicinity and civilian traffic was minimized, P/O Farrell attempted to pull the vehicle over. This resulted in an immediate and successful vehicle stop without endangering any police or civilian lives.

The defendant was subsequently arrested and charged with multiple crimes, including Risking a Catastrophe and Fleeing Police. In addition to these charges, the defendant had recently been released from jail on bond, where he was being held on Third-Degree Murder charges.

P/O Farrell displayed incredible poise, patience, and tactical awareness by following the defendant until an appropriate amount of police personnel were on location to effect the arrest, and the number of civilians in the area was minimized, reducing the risk of injuries to bystanders. These actions exemplify the qualities expected of a Philadelphia Police Officer.

It for these reasons that we are proud to recognize P/O Thomas Farrell as our Police Officer of The Month for June, 2024.

On Saturday, May 25th, at approximately 11:45 p.m., P/O Palmer #9433 responded to a report of a 10-year-old non-verbal autistic female who had walked into the Applebee’s restaurant located at 9142 Roosevelt Blvd. P/O Palmer drove around the neighborhood, hoping the girl would be able to point out her home. After searching multiple blocks with her, he was unable to locate a residence. However, he was able to get her first name, Mia. Using that information and a description of the girl, P/O Palmer contacted the Special Victims Unit. Through teamwork with the Special Victims Unit, P/O Palmer was able to learn the child's address and return her to her family unharmed.

P/O Palmer displayed incredible compassion, patience, and determination in keeping the child calm and relaxed. He also demonstrated excellent communication skills and teamwork with the Special Victims Unit and his fellow officers over police radio to reunite her with her family. These actions exemplify the qualities expected of a Philadelphia Police Officer.

It for these reasons that we are proud to recognize P/O Robert Palmer as our Police Officer of The Month for May 2024.

P/O TELA KENNEDY CONSISTENTLY RANKS AMONG THE HIGHEST PERFORMERS IN 3-PLATOON, DEMONSTRATING EXCEPTIONAL PROFICIENCY IN VARIOUS ASSIGNMENTS AND TASKS ASSIGNED TO HER. NOTABLY, SHE EXCELS IN CONDUCTING VEHICLE STOPS, PEDESTRIAN STOPS AND ADDRESSING CURFEW VIOLATIONS, WHICH STATISTICALLY CONSTITUTE THE MAJORITY OF OFFENSES CONTRIBUTING TO THE SURGE IN AUTO THEFTS WITHIN THE CITY.

P/O KENNEDY’S DEDICATION TO ENSURING THE SAFETY OF THE RESIDENTS OF THE 7TH DISTRICT EXEMPLIFIES THE QUALITIES EXPECTED OF A PHILADELPHIA POLICE OFFICER. IT IS FOR THESE REASONS THAT WE ARE PROUD TO RECOGNIZE P/O KENNEDY AS AS OUR POLICE OFFICER OF THE MONTH FOR APRIL, 2024.

On Saturday, March 2nd at approximately 9:25pm while working as 7SB1, Officers Stephen Mazzoni and William Forbes responded to a radio call for a ‘Recovered Stolen Auto’ at 516 Kendrick Street. While on location, they surveyed the immediate area for a silver 2017 Kia Sportage. They located the vehicle. Through further investigation, they found a receipt inside the vehicle that was dated and time stamped from a Rite Aid located in the 2nd District. Officers Mazzoni and Forbes held on to the receipt in hopes of gathering more information that would help them track down the offenders of the stolen auto. Also while on location, officers Mazzoni and Forbes were approached by a complainant who relayed to them that two people in all dark clothing were observed exiting the aforementioned Kia and stole his blue 2018 Hyundai Sonata. Officers Mazzoni and Forbes received information that the previously reported 2018 Hyundai Sonata was utilized as part of a mass shooting that occurred in the 2nd District. Officers Mazzoni and Forbes contacted SIG and informed the assigned detective on the case about their discovery of the found receipt from Rite Aid inside of the 2017 Kia. The detective requested officers Mazzoni and Forbes to bring the receipt in as well as give a statement. The detective was able to recover video from the Rite Aid that would lead to the identification of Jeremiah Jefferson, and as a result, a warrant was issued and an arrest was made. More importantly, information discovered during this investigation lead to an arrest in the mass shooting that occurred in the 2nd District. This investigation was a major catalyst in the subsequent arrest of more actors in the mass shooting.

In recognition of their attention to detail that played a significant role in the apprehension of dangerous felons, we are proud to recognize Officers Mazzoni and Forbes as our Police Officers of the Month for March, 2024.

On Friday, February 9, 2024 P/O Farrell observed a Ford Mustang exiting the Wawa parking lot at 10901 Bustleton Ave and traveling in the center median island without headlights on. P/O Farrell activated his overhead lights and conducted a vehicle investigation. During the investigation the operator was found to have a suspended license. P/O Farrell informed the operator that his vehicle would be impounded under the Livestop program. At this point, the operator became agitated and repeatedly exited and reentered the car. He then proceeded to the passenger side to retrieve a Target bag. P/O Farrell noticed the handle and trigger guard of a handgun inside the bag, prompting him to place the male in handcuffs for further investigation. Subsequently, it was discovered that the male's permit to carry was revoked, leading to his arrest. The offender was charged with VUFA and related offenses.

This arrest is just one example of the thoroughness that P/O Farrell applies to his daily tasks as a Police Officer. He is a well respected member of 3- Platoon due to his positive attitude and hard work.

It is for these reasons that we are proud to recognize P/O Thomas Farrell as our Police Officer of the Month for February, 2024.

On Thursday, January 4 at approximately 11:54 A.M., P/O Hershman #6365 responded to a radio call at 2201 Tremont Street for a report of a local fire with people trapped inside of an apartment building. When she arrived on location and entered the lobby on the 1st floor, she found several residents who had already evacuated their apartments. Officer Hershman then proceeded up the stairs and found several more residents evacuating from the second floor. On the 3rd floor, Officer Hershman was met with smoke filling the hallways. At this time, she entered the 3rd floor corridor and went from apartment to apartment knocking on doors alerting any residents who remained inside their apartments. After knocking on several doors, she found an elderly man and immediately evacuated him from his apartment and guided him down the fire exit stairs to safety. At this time, Officer Hershman continued to a different corridor of the apartment where heavier smoke was now taking over the 3rd floor. It was here that she assisted a resident in an attempt to retrieve her cat from her room. After several attempts to remove the cat, and the hallways still filling with smoke, Officer Hershman was forced to evacuate the resident without the cat due to the escalating danger of the situation. She continued down the hallway still knocking on doors and was met by two elderly females needing assistance. One of the elderly residents was using a walker due to recent knee and hip surgery. Officer Hershman led them to the fire exit stairs. It was here that the woman explained to the officer that she could not walk down steps because of her recent surgeries. P/O Hershman instructed the woman to get onto her back to be carried down the steps. After an attempt, the woman feared she would knock Officer Hershman over. She then attempted to walk down the steps with the assistance of P/O Hershman. Slowly and carefully, P/O Hershman was able to safely assist the elderly women down 3 flights of stairs and make their way outside of the apartment building and away from the smoked filled hallways. Both woman were evaluated by medics on location. Officer Hershman’s BWC was activated during the entirety of this event.

The quick response of the officer to recognize the imminent danger to the residents of the apartment and her actions to evacuate several people to safety reflects highly on the Philadelphia Police Department. It is for these actions that we are proud to recognize P/O Patricia Hershman as our Police Officer of the Month for January, 2024.

On 11/29/23 at 10:57 pm, 7th district Officers responded to 8410 Bustleton Ave. for a report of an attempted theft. The complainant (M.W.) stated to Police that earlier in the day he was scheduled to sell a pair of sneakers to the offender later identified as Anthony Mott. The complainant further states that at approximately 10:55pm he heard a knock at his door, when the complainant answered the door, he observed Mott reach into the apartment and attempt to take the complainants sneakers from inside. The complainant slammed the door closed and Mott fled. Mott was gone upon Police arrival a report was taken.

On 11/30/23 at 7:42 am, 7th district officers responded to 8410 Bustleton Ave. for a report of a person with a weapon/home invasion. The complainant (G.C.) stated to police that an unknown male, later identified as Anthony Mott had knocked on his door. The complainant states that he did not open the door at which time Mott forced the door open and entered the apartment holding a knife. The complainant states that Mott pointed the knife at him and demanded money. Mott then held the knife to the complainant’s neck and punched him in the face. Mott then took the complainant’s wallet containing $30 USC as well as cards and paperwork. Mott was again gone upon Police arrival, the scene was held and processed by NEDD.

On 11/30/23 at 10:02 am, 7th district officers responded to 8410 Bustleton Ave. for a report of a person armed with a gun and a large machete. Upon Police arrival, Police located the complainant (J.M.) who had locked himself inside a storage closet to escape the offender who was later identified as Anthony Mott. The complainant stated that while working in the building, Mott entered the hallway with a handgun as well as a large machete, Mott stated to the complainant that he was going to kill everyone in the building as he waved the machete. It was at this point that the complainant locked himself inside the closet and called 911. Mott was again gone upon Police arrival. Witnesses on the scene stated to Police that Mott had fled the scene in a white Nissan Rouge SUV being driven by an unknown female.

At this point the 7th district Special Beat, Officer Binns, was redeployed to the area of 8410 Bustleton in the event that Mott would return. At approximately 3:08 pm Officer Binns observed a white Nissan Rouge pull into the rear of 8410 Bustleton. At this time P/O Binns initiated a car stop on the Nissan and awaited backup Officers. Upon back up arrival P/O Binns detained both Mott as well as the female driver. Mott was positively identified by the three complainants who were all on the scene. The female driver stated that the machete used earlier in the day was inside her house and gave consent to NEDD who also arrived on the scene. The machete was recovered, the handgun remains unaccounted for.

The offender, Anthony Mott, was subsequently charged with Aggravated Assault (F), Robbery (F), Burglary (F1), VUFA-No License (F3), VUFA-On Streets (M1) and REAP (M2).

The actions taken by Officer Binns to apprehend this dangerous felon ultimately ended this reign of terror being committed, making the residents as well as all of the citizens of the 7th District in Philadelphia safer. It is for these actions that we are proud to recognize Officer Robert Binns as our Police Officer of the Month for December, 2023.

While working the 11:30 pm to 7:45 am tour of duty on Thursday, November 23 (Thanksgiving Day) as 7E, Sgt. Crawford responded to a R/C for priority backup in at the 8th District for a possible shooting with victim at Ashton & Willits Roads in the parking lot. Upon arrival there was a large uncooperative, hostile crowd gathered in the parking lot just outside the Celtic Cross Tavern located at 9037 Ashton Road and an unknown male observed laying in the parking lot suffering from what appeared to be a gunshot wound to the lower chest/abdomen area being attended to by the Fire Dept. medics. While Sgt. Crawford, along with an 8th District lieutenant, were trying to control the hostile crowd and maintain the integrity of the scene, Sgt. Crawford attempted to gather in a timely fashion any flash information of a possible shooter. Several individuals came up to Sgt. Crawford and stated that the shooter went by the name of Chris and that an unidentified female on location at the time was a cousin of the shooter. These individuals could not give any clothing description or direction of escape. While Sgt. Crawford continued to attend to the scene and assist other officers tape off the area and keep it from being contaminated, Sgt. Crawford heard information broadcast over police radio to use caution, that the shooter may possibly be armed and still be on location. Sgt. Crawford was then approached by a witness in the lot that knew the male involved, and stated to the Sergeant the male was still on location and pointed to a W/M sitting on curb across the parking lot adjacent to the Celtic Cross Tavern. Upon receiving this information, Sgt. Crawford turned around in the parking lot and observed a W/M sitting on a curb on the west side of the gas station in the dark. Upon approaching the male, the Sergeant observed what appeared to be a Glock semi-automatic firearm lying right next to him, partially on the grass and curb of gas station parking lot. The Sergeant approached the male carefully and placed the male in cuffs for the safety of everyone on scene due to him having access to a loaded firearm within arms reach.

The suspect admitted to shooting the victim, stating it was in self defense. The male was placed into custody without incident and was positively identified as the male involved in the shooting by two witnesses on location. The defendant suffered no injuries and did not require any medical attention. He was transported by 8th District personnel to the Homicide Unit. The victim was transported to Jefferson Torresdale Hospital by Fire Medics and was pronounced deceased at 3:07 am. The scene and all evidence involved in the crime was held for processing by 8th District officers for assigned Detectives and the Crime Scene Unit. The defendant was subsequently charged with Involuntary Manslaughter & REAP.

The Sergeant displayed true professionalism on this day by controlling a hostile crowd and chaotic scene and gathering the flash information quickly that was needed to apprehend an armed offender still on location who clearly posed a threat to everyone still out on the scene. Sgt. Crawford exercised great skill in locating the firearm used in the commission of the crime, all while maintaining the integrity of the scene for the investigation to be concluded. The Sergeant is surely deserving to be recognized for his actions on that day. As such, we are proud to recognize him as our Police Officer of the Month for November, 2023.

On Tuesday, October 3, Officer Sellers, while working a limited duty status, spoke with a male at the District who was claiming to have been involved in an accident overnight, but provided very limited information. Offer Sellers recalled seeing a news report of a fatal accident that occurred overnight at the intersection of Bustleton and Solly Avenues. Officer Sellers was able to convince the man to remain in the District lobby as he began making calls to Crash Investigation District and Northeast Detectives. After speaking with investigators from Crash Investigation, it was determined that the male who presented himself in the District was the operator of the vehicle involved in the fatal accident who fled the scene. The male was taken into custody and transported to Crash Investigation District for additional processing.

Officer Sellers displayed competent thinking while persuading the male to remain in the District as he sought confirmation with the investigators. As such, we are proud to recognize him as our Police Officer of the Month for October, 2023.

On Thursday, September 7 Officer Gerace responded to a radio call at Motel 6 located at 11580 Roosevelt Blvd. Upon arrival he learned that an adult male had locked himself and his 5 month old son in one of the hotel rooms on the second floor. The male was making threats that he was going to strangle the infant and hang him over the balcony. When the male closed the curtains, preventing the police from seeing his movements, other officers created a distraction, which allowed Officer Gerace to force himself into the room and secure the infant’s safety. Because of the quick actions of the officer, the father was prevented from harming his child.

While 3-platoon does not have the frequency of high profile assignments that other platoons encounter, the officers that are assigned are no less dedicated to the protection of the public. Repeatedly, the officers are tasked with incidents that require a professional police officer to investigate. Officer Gerace is one of those officers who is immensely dedicated to that ethos. As such, we are proud to recognize him as our Police Officer of the Month for September, 2023.

On Tuesday, August 8, P/Os Jennifer Gainer and William Andrews, assigned to EPW 701, responded to a “Person with a Gun” call on the 14000 block of Bustleton Avenue. Upon arrival the officers observed a victim suffering from a gunshot wound to his left leg. While surveying for a crime scene, the officers were met by a female who informed them that her ex-boyfriend and the victim were arguing outside when she heard a single gunshot. The female further stated that her ex-boyfriend was having a room prepped for him in the 200 block of Byberry Road.

Officers Andrews and Gainer then proceeded to that address and took tactical positions at both the front and rear of the property. While securing the property, the officers were able to make contact with a male and detained him for further investigation. The male admitted to owning a black Glock 45 semi-automatic handgun and its current location within the property. After confirming the location of the gun, the property was held for a search warrant.

The victim was able to positively identify the male in custody as the person who shot him. The patience and sound tactics demonstrated by these officers prevented a possibly deadly situation and led to the arrest of the defendant with charges of Aggravated Assault, Violation of the Uniform Firearms Act, Simple Assault and Recklessly Endangering Another Person. It is for these reasons that we are proud to recognize Officers Andrews and Gainer as our Police Officers of the Month for August, 2023.

On Tuesday, July 11 at approximately 2:58 A.M. Sgt. Richard Crawford responded to a radio call of a Robbery in Progress on the 2800 block of Shipley Road in the 8th District. Upon arrival he met with the complainant who stated that as he exited his vehicle he was approached by three unknown black males in dark clothing who attacked him and struck him in the face with a handgun. The offenders took the complainant’s keys, wallet and phone and also fled in the complainant’s vehicle, a 2015 black Dodge Charger.

While Sgt. Crawford was surveying the area at Solly Avenue and Roosevelt Blvd., he observed two black vehicles pull up at a traffic light, one being a Dodge Charger. He pulled out behind the two vehicles and notified Police Radio that he was behind a vehicle fitting the description from the robbery going southbound on Roosevelt Blvd., approaching Rhawn Street. The vehicle stopped at the light at which time the Sgt. verified the tag number with Police Radio so that he could confirm this was the same vehicle taken in the carjacking.

The fleeing vehicle was involved in a crash at the corner of Castor Avenue and Stirling Street in the 2nd District, striking a utility pole and catching fire. With the assistance of 2nd District officers, two males who ran from he vehicle were apprehended after the Sgt. utilized flash information to alert Police Radio as to what direction they fled. Sgt. Crawford then returned to the stolen vehicle, which was now on fire. Noticing the vehicle was on fire, Sgt. Crawford observed a third male inside the vehicle, unconscious and trapped under the steering wheel and dashboard. The Sgt. immediately asked Police Radio to expedite Fire Board to his location. Observing that the dangerous conditions had escalated, he went into the burning vehicle and pulled the male to safety.

Three semi-automatic hand guns were recovered from inside the Dodge Charger and one additional from the highway. All three male were positively identified by the complainant. This is an exemplary example of dedication and commitment to serving and protecting the citizens of Philadelphia. As such, we are proud to recognize Sgt. Richard Crawford as our Police Officer of the Month for July, 2023.

On Saturday, June 10, 2023 at approximately 1:30 A.M., Officer Sawicki and Marko, while working the 10 PM to 6 AM tour, assigned to 7T8, responded to the 2400 block of Welsh Road in the 8th District for a report of a shooting. Officer Sawicki and Marko were the first to arrive on scene, notifying incoming units that the assignment was founded. The officers immediately stopped the offender and held the scene while other officers rushed the gunshot victim to the hospital. At approximately 4:45 A.M. the victim succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced dead. The defendant was transported to the Homicide Unit.

In recognition of their quick response and action taken, we are proud to recognize Officers Edward Sawicki and George Marko as our Police Officers of the Month for June, 2023.

On Tuesday, May 16, Officers Cowdery and Sanchez, while working the 3-11 tour of duty in full uniform as Unit 7T2, were surveying in the 11900 block of Dumont Road pursuit to numerous thefts of Hyundai and Kia vehicles when they observed several juvenile males seated inside a legally parked Hyundai Sonata. Officer Cowdery observed the operator of the vehicle starting the vehicle with an unknown object that clearly was not a key. The operator next attempted to pull out of the parking space and, after several unsuccessful attempts to do so, jumped from the vehicle along with the other occupants, leaving the vehicle in gear. Officer Cowdery, having observed the operator who was wearing a blue shirt and jeans running from the vehicle accompanied by the other occupants, gave chase on foot. Officer Cowdery was able to observe these juveniles as they fled into the rear fenced off yard of 11996 Lockhart. Officer Cowdery related that he ordered the juveniles to the ground and that only the driver complied. He was taken into custody. The other males climbed the fence of the yard and fled in an unknown direction.

For their actions, we are proud to recognize Officers Stephen Cowdery and Jason Sanchez as our Police Officers of the Month for May, 2023.

On Wednesday, April 5 Officers Green and Segaline responded to a radio call for a person with a gun on the 500 block of Tomlinson Road at the Gifford Playground. Upon arrival, the officers were met by the complainant who told them that an unknown male in the playground was acting strange and kept coming near the complainant and her friend. The male attempted to talk to the complainant and grabbed her phone. When the complainant tried to pull the phone back and move away from the offender, the offender threatened to kill her, saying he had a gun and a knife. The offender took the complainant’s phone and threw the complainant’s other belongings in the trash.

The officers were already in the area and were able to arrive on location quickly. After locating and speaking with the complainant, the officers were able to locate a male who fit the flash information provided by the complainant. The complainant was brought to the location of the offender and made a positive ID of the offender. The complainant’s phone was recovered from the offender. The male was arrested for numerous charges including Robbery, Aggravated Assault, Theft, Simple Assault and REAP. The quick response and actions of these officers led to the arrest of a violent offender and they should be recognized for their efforts. As such, we are proud to recognize Officers Ernest Green and Gregory Segaline as our Police Officers of the Month for April, 2023.

On Thursday, March 2 at 12:53 P.M. 7th District officers responded to the 10800 block of Bustleton Avenue for a report of a shooting incident. Flash information was provided of three black males seen running northbound on Avon Street towards Jeanes Street. An officer observed three males matching the descriptions and gave Police Radio continuous updates of their location until proper backup arrived. When officers attempted to stop the males, they fled on foot. A perimeter was set up and P/O Rivera stopped the defendant as he was exiting a rear yard on the 700 block of Greymount Street. Officers immediately began canvassing the area for the other males. One officer noticed several residential cameras facing the area the males were seen. Upon speaking with a homeowner, he was able to obtain video of the defendant placing an object in the wheel well of a blue 2006 Ford Mustang. He communicated that information via Police Radio. Another officer went to the wheel well and identified a loaded 45-caliper handgun which was guarded for DNA evidence and recovered by detectives. Upon review of the video, it showed the same male Officer Rivera stopped as the one who placed the firearm in the wheel well of the vehicle. The defendant was transported for further processing. The efforts of the officers created a solid starting point for Northeast Detectives to investigate other unsolved shootings involving 45-caliper handguns.

Officer Rivera in this case displayed and exercised high quality policing efforts to bring an expedient and safe resolution to a violent crime. It is for the above described actions that we are proud to recognize Officer Felix Rivera as our Police Officer of the Month for March, 2023.

During the month of February, P/O Rivera produced excellent all around activity, including vehicle investigations, pedestrian investigations and responding to radio calls.

On February 9, P/O Rivera was assigned with his partner to work 702 Wagon on the 4x12 shift. Before roll call, his supervisor notified them that there was family at the service window in the District that needed to serve 302 paperwork on the 700 block of Emerson Street. The family advised officers that the male who lives at the property has many guns in a safe and has been in mental crisis for months. The officers and supervisor decided the the safest course of action would be to try to talk the male out of the house so he could be transported to Friends Hospital without incident. P/O Rivera along with three ofter officers and a sergeant went to the location and made contact with the male through the front window of the property. P/O Rivera and the male’s brother were talking to the male, telling him that no one was there to hurt him and were there to help him. The entire conversation was spoken in Spanish, which P/O Rivera speaks fluently. P/O Rivera advised other officers to take cover because the male left the window and they heard the gun safe being opened. The officers took cover and blocked off the area to protect the public if the male decided to use the guns. The house was declared a barricaded person incident. The scene was held for 20 minutes awaiting SWAT officers to arrive. The SWAT officers asked P/O Rivera to come into the armored vehicle so he could try to communicate with the male through the PA system. While trying to communicate with the male, SWAT officers attempted to knock off a camera that was on the garage of the property. At that time the male inside the house fired approximately 20 shots at the officers and the armored truck. P/O Rivera was then removed from the truck due to the gunfire. After hours of a stand-off, the male finally surrendered without any injury to himself or the officers. P/O Rivera deserves recognition for this assignment because he went into the SWAT vehicle without the same protective equipment as the SWAT officers and was in the line of fire when the male started shooting. He should be awarded for all of his hard work and dedication to the Philadelphia Police Department and the citizens of the 7th District. It is for these reasons that we are proud to recognize him as our Police Officer of the Month for February, 2023.

On Wednesday, January 11 at approximately 11:40 P.M. P/O Macrane responded with other officers to a residence in the 10200 block of Galahad Road for a person with a gun. On arrival the officer met with the complainant who informed the officer that he was in his house when the defendant kicked in the front door, entered the property and came up the stairs from the foyer. The male then began to argue with the complainant and another person, threatening to kill both of them. At this time, the defendant became violent and began to fight with the two com- plainants while holding a knife. During the struggle, the defendant cut complainant #1 as he was attempting to block the attack and not get cut. At about this time police arrived on location. P/ O Macrane entered the property and was able to disarm the defendant and prevent any additional injuries. It was noted that the complainant had a laceration approximately 2 inches long on the palm of his left hand. The other complainant suffered a small cut about 1/4 inch on her left hand. Both individuals refused medical treatment.

The quick actions of P/O Macrane in maintaining composure while disarming the defendant prevented any additional injuries to the complainants as well as the defendant.

While Three Platoon does not have the frequency of high profile assignments that other platoons work with, the officers that are assigned to Three Platoon are never-the-less highly dedicated to the protection of the public. The hours of their patrol are tedious and difficult, with darkness hiding much of the detail that normal daylight patrol provides. P/O Macrane is one of those officers who is immensely dedicated to the ethos that he serves the public and that his vigilance is essential in keeping the sleeping citizens safe. We are proud to recognize him as our Police Officer of the Month for January, 2023.

Police Officer of the Month

December, 2024 P/O William Hoppe #6437

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BRANDING PROJECT NO 9

November, 2024 P/O Sherrelle Mitchell #6377

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BRANDING PROJECT NO 9

October, 2024P/O Joseph Walker #2416

P/O Joseph Walker w/Captain Steven O'Brien

Marie Smith (State Rep. Ed Neilson's Office) presenting to P/O Joseph Walker

Meg McCormick (State Rep. Elect Sean Dougherty's office) presenting to P/O Joseph Walker

Patricia Leneghan (State Rep. Martina White's Office) presenting to P/O Joseph Walker

Christina Haney (Councilman Brian O'Neill's Office) presenting to P/O Joseph Walker

P/O Joseph Walker & his son w/Captain Steven O'Brien

P/O Joseph Walker and his son

September, 2024P/O Gerald Wolford #5569

P/O Gerald Wolford w/Sgt. Rocco Basil

P/O Gerald Wolford being presented by Christina Haney (Councilman Brian O'Neill's Office)

P/O Gerald Wolford and his wife.

August, 2024P/O Stephen Szczepkowski #6826

P/O Stephen Szczepkowski w/Captain Steven O'Brien

Christina Haney (Councilman Brian O'Neill's Office) presenting to P/O Stephen Szczepkowski

Patricia Leneghan (State Rep. Martina White's Office) presenting to P/O Stephen Szczepkowski

Marie Smith (State Rep. Ed Neilson's Office) presenting to P/O Stephen Szczepkowski

July, 2024 P/O George Rodriguez #2961

Christina Haney (Councilman Brian O'Neill's Office) presenting to P/O George Rodriguez

Marie Smith (State Rep. Ed Neilson's Office) presenting to P/O George Rodriguez

Patricia Leneghan (State Rep. Martina White's Office) presenting to P/O George Rodriguez

P.D.A.C. Chairman Mike Myers presenting to P/O George Ridriguez

P/O George Rodriguez and his wife

June, 2024P/O Thomas Farrell #5272

Christina Haney (Councilman Brian Oneill's Office) presenting to P/O Thomas Farrell

P/O Thomas Farrell with P.D.A.C. Chairman Mike Myers

P/O Thomas Farrell with his wife Rose

May, 2024 P/O Robert Palmer #9433

Vice-Chairman Greg Bucceroni, P/O Robert Palmer & Captain Steven O'Brien

P/O Robert Palmer

P/O Robert Palmer being presented by Marie Smith, State Rep. Ed Neilson's office

P/O Robert Palmer being presented by Matt Darrah, Senator Jimmy Dillon's office

APRIL, 2024P/O TELA KENNEDY #2444

Captain Steven O'Brien with Officer Tela Kennedy

Senator Jimmy Dillon with Officer Tela Kennedy

P.D.A.C.. Chairman Mike Myers and Captain Steven O'Brien with Officer Tela Kennedy and her aunt.

State Reps. Ed Neilson and Martina White with Officer Tela Kennedy

March, 2024P/O Stephen Mazzoni #2223P/O William Forbes #4106

P/O Stephen Mazzoni, Captain Steven O'Brien, P/O William Forbes

P/O Stephen Mazzoni with his wife, mother and daughter & P/O William Forbes with his wife

P/O Forbbes and Mazzoni being presented by Marie Smith, State Rep. Ed Neilson's office

P/O Forbbes and Mazzoni being presented by Christina Haney, Councilman Brian O'Neill's office

P/O Forbbes and Mazzoni being presented by Matt Darrah, Senator Jimmy Dillon's office

February, 2024P/O Thomas farrell #5272

P/O Thomas Farrell with Captain Steven O'Brien

P/O Thomas Farrell with P.D.A.C. Chairman Mike Myers

P/O Thomas Farrell being presented by Christina Haney, Councilman Brian O'Neill's Office

P/O Thomas Farrell being presented by Matt Darragh, Senator Jimmy Dillon's Office

P/O Thomas Farrell being presented by Marie Smith, State Rep. Ed Neilson's Office

P/O Thomas Farrell with his wife Rose

January, 2024P/O Patricia Hershman #6365

P/O Patrica Hershman w/Captain Steven O'Brien

Sgt. William Caine, P/O Patricia Hershman and her husband

P/O Patricia Hershman with her husband

P/O Patricia Hershman with Senator Jimmy Dillon

December, 2023P/O Robert Binns #3320

P/O Robert Binns with Captain Steven O'Brien

P/O Robert Binns with Declan Carolan (State Rep. Kevin Boyle's Office)

P/O Robert Binns with Christina Haney (Councilman Brian O'Neill's Office)

December, 2024
P/O William Hoppe #6437

November, 2024
P/O Sherrelle Mitchell #6377

October, 2024
P/O Joseph Walker #2416

September, 2024
P/O Gerald Wolford #5569

August, 2024
P/O Stephen Szczepkowski #6826

July, 2024
P/O George Rodriguez #2961

June, 2024
P/O Thomas Farrell #5272

May, 2024
P/O Robert Palmer #9433

APRIL, 2024
P/O TELA KENNEDY #2444

March, 2024
P/O Stephen Mazzoni #2223
P/O William Forbes #4106

February, 2024
P/O Thomas farrell #5272

January, 2024
P/O Patricia Hershman #6365

December, 2023
P/O Robert Binns #3320

November, 2023
Sgt. Richard Crawford #434

October, 2023
P/O Robert Sellers #3611

September, 2023
P/O Carmen Gerace #3034

August, 2023
P/O William Andrews #3935
P/O Jennifer Gainer #5443

July, 2023
Sgt. Richard Crawford #434

June, 2023
P/O Edward Sawicki #9606
P/O George Marko #9784

May, 2023
P/O STephen Cowdery #4771
P/O Jason Sanchez #7527

April, 2023
P/O Ernest Green #4980
P/O Gregory Segaline #7321

March, 2023
P/O Felix Rivera #4952

FEBRUARY, 2023
P/O PABLO RIVERA #1944

JANUARY, 2023
P/O Frank Macrane #9984

7th Police District
9845 Bustleton Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19115