Mount Hope honors officers at annual law-enforcement awards ceremony

Following adjournment of the board meeting, the Mount Hope police department and board hosted an awards ceremony recognizing officers and staff for community service, training and lifesaving actions in 2024.

Administrative assistant Charlotte Formosa received a certificate of commendation for her work on National Night Out and community service. Officers Robert Decker, Jamie Johnson and Formosa were commended for their roles in the Junior Police Academy. Officer Gregor Tucant was recognized for 25 years of service (plaque presented in absentia).

Officer Brian Benjamin received a meritorious and life-saving award for an Aug. 14, 2024 response in which he engaged a suspect armed with a knife; his actions helped ensure emergency medical personnel could reach and treat a victim with multiple stab wounds. The chief noted Benjamin’s quick response time (reported at 4 minutes, 48 seconds) and that the county also recognized him for the incident.

Deputy Chief Curtis received a dedicated service award for sustained contributions across events, background investigations and shift coverage. A newly created "charm" award — named for the department’s core values of courage, honor, accountability, respect and motivation — was presented to Officer John Changu. Officer Timothy Fenford was named Officer of the Year; the chief cited Fenford’s initiative, follow-up work and 67 summonses for the year as factors in the selection.

County legislator Jan Flin attended the ceremony and presented recognition on behalf of the Orange County Legislature.

Why it matters: The ceremony highlights local law-enforcement activities, community outreach and a life‑saving intervention that department leadership says helped preserve life.

What’s next: The department invited guests to a reception with coffee, cake and refreshments following the ceremony.