Two University Police Officers Receive Statewide Award

Two members of the Buffalo State University Police force were honored by the SUNY Police Chiefs Association on November 19 in Albany. Lieutenant Michael Myers and Officer Richard Rogers each received the Professional Service Award, and were among 17 State University of New York police officers to be honored.

Myers was nominated for the award for following a hit-and-run driver who struck a student at Grant and Letchworth streets, and for assisting the Buffalo police in arresting the driver. Rogers remained at the scene to provide medical assistance to the student.

“Law enforcement officers on our state college and university campuses face extraordinary challenges every day,” said Dan De Federicis, executive director of the Police Benevolent Association of New York State. “The officers honored this year demonstrated outstanding courage and service in adverse and potentially life-threatening situations. We salute them on behalf of all New Yorkers.” 

SUNY Chancellor Nancy Zimpher, University Police Commissioner Bruce McBride, and Chief Steven Dangler, chair of the SUNY Police Chiefs Awards Committee, presented the awards.

“The incident took place on a boundary street late at night,” said Peter Carey, University Police chief. “The presence of our officers demonstrates our commitment to protecting and providing help to the members of the Buffalo State community and our neighborhood.”

On October 28, the Buffalo State Buffalo State University Police Award Ceremony was held. Two officers—Investigator Thomas E. Einhiple and Officer Richard W. Rogers—received the Meritorious Police Service Award. Einhiple was recognized for his role in a credit card fraud investigation conducted in cooperation with the United States Secret Service, the Amherst Police Department, and the Erie County District Attorney’s Office. Rogers was recognized for his actions in the arrest of a wanted parolee and two other suspects who had an illegal weapon.

Deputy Chief John A. Lombardo received the Excellent Police Service Award for his significant contribution to the Clery Act Annual Security Report. The Clery Act requires colleges and universities to disclose information about crime on and around their campuses. Lombardo also manages the campus alarm and access control systems.

In addition, two university Police Officers received awards from the community. Officer Patricia Hayes received the 2013 Newman Award for her community policing efforts on behalf of the Newman Center at Buffalo State. Officer Edward A. Hellig received the 2013 Erie County STOP DWI Award for his significant contribution to traffic safety and DWI enforcement.

Finally, University Police recognized Sarah M. Velez, interim director of student life, and Thomas D. Killian, director of networking and operational services. Each received the University Police Department Appreciation Award for their professional service and cooperation with University Police.

“Our highest priority is the safety and wellbeing of Buffalo State students, faculty, staff, and visitors,” said Carey. “We are committed to both the philosophy and the practice of community policing.”

Pictured (left to right): Bruce McBride, University Police commissioner; Michael LeVine, vice president for finance and management at Buffalo State; Richard W. Rogers, University Police officer; Peter Carey, University Police chief