Honor Utica Police Officer Retirement

Senate Resolution No. 2985 BY: Senator GRIFFO COMMENDING Officer John DeStefano upon the occasion of his retirement after more than 20 years of service to the Utica Police Department WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and honor those distinguished officers who would devote themselves to public service, demonstrating great courage and diligence in providing for the care and welfare of the citizens of their communities and this great Empire State; and WHEREAS, Within every community of the State of New York there are certain individuals who, by virtue of their commitment and dedication, command the respect and admiration of their community for their exemplary contributions and service on behalf of others; and WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to commend Officer John DeStefano upon the occasion of his retirement after more than 20 years of service to the Utica Police Department; he officially retired from the Department on January 17, 2020; and WHEREAS, Officer John DeStefano began his esteemed law enforcement career, spanning over two decades, with the Utica Police Department on

October 18, 1999; during the latter part of his service, he managed the Department's Records unit; and WHEREAS, In 2001, Officer John DeStefano was the recipient of a Meritorious Award by the Department for his heroic actions resulting in the rescue of a 21-month-old infant from the arms of an emotionally disturbed person holding a knife; and WHEREAS, Throughout his tenure, Officer John DeStefano truly served the residents of the City of Utica with compassion, integrity, and fairness, attributes which will forever serve as an example for his fellow officers; and WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those dedicated public servants who unselfishly devote their lives to the preservation of order and the protection of others are worthy and due full praise for their commitment and noble endeavors; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commend Officer John DeStefano upon the occasion of his retirement after more than 20 years of service to the Utica Police Department, and to wish him well in all his future endeavors; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Officer John DeStefano.