The Bedford Police Department Honors Officers for 2012

Submitted by the Bedford Police Department

On Friday May 3, 2013 the Bedford Police Department held its second annual awards ceremony. It is essential for a police department to impose internal discipline as well as promote outstanding performance. In recognition of actions taken by our police officers and community members, we commended several individuals who performed outstanding tasks to support the police department’s mission and to make our community stronger and safer.

Civilian Service Citations

Our Civilian Service Citations for 2012 included Daniel Carroll and Jameson Rooney. In October of 2012, one of the deadliest storms and most destructive hurricanes struck the Atlantic. Mr. Carroll organized Bedford Police Officers and collected tons of goods from Bedford residents including food, water and clothing. Under Mr. Carol’s efforts, they then delivered these goods to those most affected in New Jersey. In December 2012, Jameson Rooney placed a 9-1-1 call to the Bedford Emergency Communications Center. While calm and controlled, he advised personnel that his mother was experiencing a medical condition. Jameson continued on the line while listening to instruction from trained personnel. The actions of Jameson showed his ability to remain calm and courageous during an emergency.

Departmental Certificates of Commendation

Four officers received Departmental Certificates of Commendation for outstanding and distinguished performance of police duty.

• Officer Jeffrey French was recognized for successfully confiscating over one half pound of marijuana and over $2,300 in cash after smelling the strong odor of marijuana during a car stop.
• Officer Michael Sullivan after a month’s long complex investigation with members of the Southern Middlesex Regional Task Force arrested a Bedford resident with over 270 Oxycodone pills. The suspect was later charged with trafficking in a controlled substance.
• Sergeant Jeffrey Wardwell and Officer Richard Vitale were recognized for apprehending combative individual wanted in a breaking and entering in Lexington. The suspect fled into Bedford and was later arrested by Officer Vitale on a home in Curve Street. Upon being confronted, the suspect violently resisted and began to fight the officers.

The Team Spirit Award

In keeping with the spirit of community policing in the Bedford Police Department, one officer who continually displays their inspiration, motivation and dedication to the police service was also recognized. The Team Spirit Award was presented to Officer Kristen Dineen. Officer Dineen displays leadership and teamwork that is essential to the accomplishment of our mission to the maintenance of public safety.

Special Service Awards

With our nation, our state and our capital city of Boston under siege after the Marathon Bombing, four officers were recognized for Special Service Awards. Sergeant Patrick Towle, Sergeant Jeffrey Wardwell, Officer Thomas Devine and Emergency Communications Officer Jeffrey Vinciulla all members of the Bedford Police Department are assigned to the North Eastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council (NEMLEC) answered the call to duty, risking life…to respond to the horrific events in Boston and Watertown. These members of NEMLEC played a small but significant role in the apprehension of two violent terrorists. The actions of these officers were not only heroic but courageous.

Officer of the Year

Finally, our Officer of the Year Award for 2012 was presented to Officer Marc Saucier. Officer Saucier has consistently displayed sound judgment and the highest quality of service as a Police Officer and a creative problem solver. His personal appearance, demeanor and interaction with coworkers and members of the community reflect a high level of personal commitment and professionalism. Officer Saucier affirmatively promotes and supports the mission of the Bedford Police Department as he performs police service as a Patrol Officer, Information Technology Officer, Traffic Enforcement Officer and as a member of the department’s motorcycle unit. He is truly proven to be an asset to the Bedford Police Department on a daily basis.

The Bedford Police Department would like to honor and thank all the above individuals for putting our community first. Thank you for a job well done!