Community Awards 5 Officers

Thanking the Finest: Crown Heights Jewish Community Council honored 5 local police officers for "outstanding service." Full Story, Photos

January 11, 2013 – 29 Tevet 5773

Thanking the Finest: Crown Heights Jewish Community Council honored 5 local police officers for "outstanding service." Full Story, Photos

By COLlive reporter
Photos: Levi Percia/COLlive

On Tuesday night Crown Heights Jewish Community Council honored five members of the New York City Police Department who have distinguished themselves by their outstanding service to the community.

Present at the event were Chief Thomas Chan, head of Brooklyn South Patrol Boro as well as representatives of Brooklyn North and Police Headquarters, and the commander of 71st Precinct John Lewis.

Lieutenant Steven Weiss of 71st Precinct was recognized for his bravery and quick judgement in saving the life of a young community member, as well as for his innovation in a number of important recent arrests assisted by the Shmira Crime Patrol.

Recently promoted Detective Vinny Martinos received an award for his outstanding work in coordinating the Precinct’s response to the community’s needs over the Holiday Month and on other special occasions throughout the year.

Sergeant Michael Belogorodsky and Officer Maxim Katz were honored for their work with elderly crime victims, especially those whose first language is Russian.

Officer Gina Findley of the 32nd Transit District was also recognized for her work with victims of crime in the subways.

All three officers have worked closely with Batia Brandel and Galina Pindrik of community council’s Crime Victims Program.

The program assists victims of crime in filing reports and in obtaining compensation from the state. Full details on the Crime Victims Program can be obtained at chcentral.org.

The awards were presented by CHJCC Chairman, Zaki Tamir, Executive Director Eli Cohen.

The awardees also received citations from New York City Council, presented by Council Member Darlene Mealy. Council Member Mealy was joined by the director of her district office, Mrs. Arna Lipkind.

Reuven Lipkind, Director of Constituent Affairs for State Senator Eric Adams was also present. Special thanks to Rabbi Avraham Lider and Ahavas Chesed for hosting the event. Captain Michael Davidson, Commanding Officer of Transit District 32 accepted the award on behalf of Officer Findley who is on Medical leave.