'Laconia's Finest' honored Thursday afternoon

A special meeting of the Laconia Police Commission was held at City Hall yesterday afternoon to honor the men and women who each day, put their lives on the line to serve and to protect their neighbors. "This is an appropriate day to recognize and appreciate officers who have demonstrated such a high level of commitment to their community," Chief Tom Oetinger remarked, noting that the occasion coincided with National Police Week and National Police Officer Memorial Day.

Presented with a "Medal for Lifesaving With Valor" by police commissioner Armand Maheux was Officer Karl Atherton in recognition of his valiant efforts on April 24, 2003 to intercede in a suicide attempt, saving the life of a woman who had waded into the frigid waters off Opechee Beach and futilely struggled with Atherton to prevent her rescue, nearly drowning him in the process.

Officer Christopher Noyes was twice honored, first with a "Commendation for Lifesaving", stemming from his selfless and successful efforts to save the life of a woman trapped in a burning car following a fiery crash on April 6, 2003, and second with a "Letter of Commendation" for his professional performance in nabbing two burglary suspects on April 8.

Outstanding teamwork in responding to a report of gunshots on Union Avenue and following through from an initial investigation to promptly collaring the suspect before a more serious tragedy could occur, earned Sgt. Christopher Adams, Detective Jeffery Stiegler, and Officers Jeffrey Wholley, Robert Cameron, Michael Finogle and Meredith Napier a "Commendation for Distinguished Unit Action."

That same award was earned by Sgt. Sharon Cavanaugh, Sgt. Gary Hubbard, Officers Matthew Canfield, Andrew Magdich and Michael Finogle, and Dispatchers Marnell Dilorenzo and Jack Severance for their collective response to a report of that Officer Canfield had been attacked on Elm Street by a violent suspect who subsequently had fled the scene on foot. Officer Finogle, with the Department K-9 Yogi, tracked the suspect, and dispatchers coordinated the movement of the team as they closed in on the suspect, found hiding under a boat trailer.

Special Commendations were also awarded to eight officers for their "years of service" with the department. Officer Alfred Lessard was recognized for 5 years of service; Detective Jeffrey Stiegler and Administrative Assistant Robin Moyer were each commended for 10 years of duty; Sgt. Steven Clarke, Sgt. William Clary and Administrative Assistant Lori Marsh were honored for their 15 years of commitment to the force; and Lt. John MacLennan and Capt. Tim Cavanaugh were thanked for having dedicated 25 years to the community.