Hempstead Town Supervisor Kate Murray honored members from the Nassau County and Village Police Departments at a special ceremony on September 21. The police officers were honored for their community service, bravery and heroism in solving crimes and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.
“From solving murders and making daring rescues to amazing arrests, our police honorees have distinguished themselves as local heroes,” said Murray. “The town is proud to have the opportunity to recognize those who serve and protect our residents.”
Among those honored were Det. Salvatore Scalone and Det. Lawrence Sheinberg and police officer Richard Soto of the Nassau County Police 5th Squad.
While traveling in an unmarked car, Detectives Salvatore Scalone and Lawrence Sheinberg observed three males acting suspiciously. As a result, the detectives approached the men on foot and identified themselves. One subject was immediately observed placing his left hand into his pocket. Detective Sheinberg ordered him to remove his hand and the man refused. The subject had a fully operational stun gun in his hand and was immediately arrested for weapons possession. The other two subjects, now in the custody of Detective Scalone, admitted to possessing an illegal knife. Additionally, the three men admitted that they had attempted to rob someone just prior to the detectives arrival.
The youths who were arrested that day were admitted gang members, and if not for the quick actions of these detectives, would have victimized others. Their decision to observe, and then act on their instincts, led to the prevention of one, if not more armed robberies. Their knowledge of the area and robbery/gang patterns was instrumental in stopping a violent street crime before it took place. Although this type of activity was not part of their normally assigned duties, their vigilance and dedication is hereby recognized and directly responsible for increased safety on local streets.
This past year, Officer Soto was involved in an especially dangerous incident and conducted himself with unique courage and prowess. He had been assigned to respond to an armed robbery in progress at the CVS drugstore in Franklin Square. An employee in the store was witnessing the robbery in progress and was on the phone with the police, updating them with the description of the suspect.
Officer Soto, aware of the situation, entered the store with his gun drawn. As the officer surveyed and assessed the situation inside, the perpetrator suddenly emerged from an office with a handgun pointed at Soto. He pointed his weapon at the perpetrator and ordered him to drop his weapon. The perpetrator fired his gun at Officer Soto, who returned fire. The perpetrator then fled into the back of the store, out the back door and into the parking lot. During his flight, Officer Soto encountered three separate gunfire exchanges and had shielded a civilian with his own body during one of them.
The perpetrator was apprehended and transported to the hospital with multiple gun shot wounds, one of which was self-inflicted.
Officer Soto has performed an outstanding service to the community and has demonstrated heroism and bravery in the discharge of his duties. During his career, he has been recognized for his accomplishments and has earned four Meritorious Awards as well as the police department’s highest award, the Medal of Valor.
“Police officers and detectives in our town and villages make significant sacrifices every day to ensure the safety of all residents,” said Murray. “This is the town’s way of saying “thank you” to those dedicated and courageous individuals.”