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The event honors police officers from throughout Dutchess County for their commitment and contributions to the STOP-DWI Program’s mission.
“These awards symbolize the dedication and vigilance our law enforcement officials continue to display to keep our local residents as safe as possible on the road – not just during the upcoming holiday season, but year-round,” County Legislator Kenneth Roman said. “While this ceremony rightly brings attention to the enforcement efforts around Dutchess County, we must remember we all share in the responsibility to keep our roadways safe, making decisions that don’t endanger other drivers or ourselves.”
STOP-DWI’s mission is to deter drunken/drugged driving through enhanced enforcement, prosecution, rehabilitation, and education services. The annual Top Cop awards honor officers for their strong enforcement efforts in the detection and apprehension of impaired drivers.
The 2015 Top Cop Award winners are:
- Trooper Ulysses Matsoukas, State Police Troop K (Dover Plains).
- Trooper Benjamin Sloat, State Police Troop K (Stormville).
- Deputy Sheriff William Butler, Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office.
- Lt. Frank LaMonica, Sheriff’s Office.
- Officer Travis Sterritt, Red Hook police.
- Officer Richard Sisilli, Town of Poughkeepsie police.
- Officer Michael Veeder, Millerton police.
Additionally, the New York State STOP-DWI Association recognized Dutchess County Sheriff’s Deputy Neil Stuart for his accomplishments achieved while assigned as the full-time STOP-DWI officer.
The event also highlighted the start of the annual Thanksgiving Crackdown campaign, which runs from Wednesday through Sunday, Nov. 29, with law enforcement agencies across Dutchess County participating in a countywide program to catch impaired drivers this holiday season. The campaign is intended to discourage people from driving impaired, promote awareness and keep the roadways safe.
Motorists who encounter what they suspect is an impaired driver should call 911 with a description of the vehicle, location and direction of travel.
The enforcement effort is administered by the Dutchess County STOP-DWI program through grant funding awarded from the state STOP-DWI Foundation.
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