Bridgeport swears in part-time officer and honors officers and a resident for heroism

The Bridgeport Borough Council authorized the hire of a part-time patrol officer, Dylan Rice (sworn in at the meeting), and the Police Department presented several commendations.

Council voted to authorize hiring Dylan Rice effective Oct. 14, 2025; the chief introduced Rice’s background, noting his Boyertown High School and Ursinus College attendance, police academy certification, ten years with Radnor Township Police Department (2015–2025) and instructing experience. Following the council motion and second, Rice recited the oath of office before the council and was welcomed as a new officer.

The Bridgeport Police Department then recognized officers for three recent commendable events: - A Distinguished Unit Commendation to Officer Nicholas Bienchini and Officer Mark Stowwagen for a May 2, 2025 response to a disturbance on the 600 block of Bush Street that resulted in securing a dangerous subject without additional violence. Chief Specter praised their teamwork. - Recognition for Officers John Seber and Nicholas Bienchini for their October 20, 2024 response to a reported burglary at 96 DeKalb Street, where officers located and apprehended a subject inside a structure, preventing further property loss. - A commendatory letter for Officer Michael D’Annunzio and resident Sean McLaughlin for their June 14, 2025 actions at a residential fire on West Sixth Street. Chief Specter said McLaughlin brought a ladder from his residence and, together with Officer D’Annunzio, rescued two people from the second floor, an action the chief said likely averted fatalities.

Council and members of the public praised the officers and Mr. McLaughlin for “professionalism, bravery and commitment,” and the council congratulated the newly sworn officer.