CARMEL, NY — The Carmel Police Department took center stage at a recent Carmel Town Board meeting, where officers were honored for their heroic efforts, lifesaving interventions, and exceptional service throughout the past year. Police Chief Anthony Hoffmann presented a detailed account of the courageous acts that led to the awards, praising his officers for their dedication and professionalism in situations that went far beyond the call of duty.
The annual recognition ceremony shed light on the wide-ranging responsibilities law enforcement officers handle on a daily basis—many of which involve split-second decisions that can mean the difference between life and death.
Rescues on Lake Mahopac
Officers Vincent Serio and Anthony Bambach were awarded Lifesaving Awards for a June 2023 water rescue that saved a Mahopac woman and her dog. Caught in a sudden storm while paddleboarding on Lake Mahopac, the woman found herself struggling to stay afloat in the rough waters. Responding with urgency, Officers Serio and Bambach navigated the dangerous weather conditions and pulled the woman and her pet to safety—an act that likely prevented a tragic outcome.
Firearms Arrest at Large Gathering
In September 2023, Detectives Brian Forde and Daniel Shea were recognized for their role in apprehending a man in possession of four illegal firearms during a large event in Mahopac. Their vigilance and swift action earned them Letters of Commendation, while Officer Scott Fiske received a Meritorious Police Duty commendation for supporting the operation.
Response to Baldwin Place Shooting
One of the most intense incidents of the year occurred in October 2023, when officers rushed to a residence in Baldwin Place following reports of a shooting with multiple victims. Officers William Gabay and Justin Goldfine received Meritorious Police Duty and Lifesaving Awards for their roles in providing immediate medical assistance.
Detective Shea, Officer Bambach, and Sgt. Stephen McCabe were awarded Excellent Police Duty recognitions for their critical response at the chaotic and dangerous scene.
Drug Arrests and Overdose Interventions
The department’s proactive approach to drug enforcement was also recognized. In November 2023, Officer Fiske and Detective Shea arrested a drug dealer operating in the Putnam Plaza Shopping Center, earning them Excellent Police Duty awards.
The growing crisis of opioid overdoses continues to impact communities across the region, and Carmel officers have been on the front lines administering emergency care. In March 2024, Officers Goldfine and Jake Talbert received Lifesaving Awards after successfully reviving an overdose victim in Mahopac by performing CPR and administering Narcan.
In another case that same month, Officers Lash, Gabay, and Thomas Eagan were honored for saving a second overdose victim in Mahopac Falls.
Teamwork Across Jurisdictions
Carmel officers also lent their support to neighboring departments. In November 2023, following a fatal shooting in Jefferson Valley, Sgt. Christopher Fox, Officers Michelle Yeager, Connor Carroll, Vincent DeSantola, and K9 Pietro assisted Yorktown Police, earning each officer a Letter of Commendation.
Domestic Violence and Crisis Response
A domestic violence incident that unfolded along Stoneleigh Avenue and ended in Putnam Valley prompted a swift and coordinated response. Officers David Garcia, Lash, Det/Sgt Brian Forde, and Detective Devon Sanborn were each recognized with Excellent Police Duty Awards for their decisive handling of the volatile situation.
More Lifesaving Acts
In April 2024, a medical emergency at Planet Fitness in Mahopac had a positive outcome thanks to the actions of Sgt. Laura Whitten, Officer Lash, and Officer Gabay. They were each honored with Lifesaving Awards after reviving a patron who collapsed at the gym.
Earlier this May, Officer Gabay was again called into action—this time for a man in cardiac arrest on Ridge Road. His prompt response and CPR efforts saved the man’s life, earning him yet another Lifesaving Award from Chief Hoffmann.
Recognizing Top Performers
Beyond emergency interventions and arrests, the department also recognized officers who demonstrated consistent excellence in their respective roles over the past year:
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Officer Vincent DeSantola: Most overall arrests in 2024
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Officer Michelle Yeager: Most felony arrests
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Officer Matthew Valente: Most DWI arrests
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Officer James Cook: Top traffic enforcement officer
Each was presented with a Letter of Commendation to celebrate their contributions to public safety in the Carmel community.
Chief Hoffmann Praises Department’s Dedication
Throughout the ceremony, Chief Hoffmann underscored the selflessness, courage, and professionalism displayed by his officers. Whether responding to shootings, saving lives from drug overdoses, or apprehending dangerous individuals, the Carmel Police Department has demonstrated unwavering commitment to protecting the public.
“These officers do more than just enforce the law,” Hoffmann noted. “They save lives, support the community, and bring a level of excellence that makes Carmel a safer place to live.”
A Community Grateful for Its Officers
The awards ceremony served as a reminder of the often unseen and underappreciated efforts made by local law enforcement every day. As the Carmel Police Department looks ahead to another year, it does so with the backing of a grateful community and leadership committed to recognizing their vital work.
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