PORTSMOUTH — On Wednesday the Portsmouth Police Department held its third annual Awards Ceremony at the Glen Manor House. 

Awards were presented by Police Chief Thomas Lee and Town Council President Keith Hamilton to officers for their acts and accomplishments during the past year. The awards are as follows:

Medal of Valor: Probationary Patrol Officer Kyle R. Hurley

On Sept. 8, 2015, Officer Hurley made the arrest of a domestic murder suspect after responding to an apartment for a noise complaint. Upon arriving at the call, Officer Hurley discovered that a homicide had occurred and the suspect was still on scene with the weapon used in the crime within his reach. Officer Hurley, who had just completed his field training one month prior to this incident, was able to keep his composure and utilize his training to apprehend the offender of this brutal crime.

Lifesaving Award: Sgt. Stephen C. Burns

On April 19, 2015 Sergeant Burns performed CPR and utilized an automated external defibrillator (AED) to save the life of a 63-year-old Newport man who had stopped breathing.

Distinguished Service Award: Patrol Officer Patrick J. O’Neill

On June 29, 2015, Officer O’Neill responded to the Sakonnet River Bridge for the report of a suicidal male attempting to hang himself. Officer O’Neill was able to quickly grab the man off the railing and pull him to safety.

Meritorious Service Award: Patrol Officer James C. Francis

Officer Francis has patrolled the roadways on the overnight shift being especially vigilant for motorists who are operating while impaired. During the past year, Officer Francis made 32 driving-under-the-influence arrests.

Community Service Award: Patrol Officer Maddie L. Pirri

During the past year, Officer Pirri has eagerly worked with citizens groups, youth groups, Special Olympics, and has participated in several community events to strengthen the bond between the police and community.

Chief’s Award: Patrol Officer Scott E. Sullivan

Officer Sullivan has worked this past year to expand upon his community service efforts as the department’s first school resource officer. Officer Sullivan has worked with our Portsmouth youth during school hours and at after school events and functions. This past season, Officer Sullivan organized a 24 hour walk-a-thon to bring attention to the Portsmouth Police Toy Drive and through his efforts, the department was able to assist 469 people and raise close to $36,000. He was honored this year by the Rhode Island attorney general and received a Justice Award for his work in community service.

Competitive Shooting Award: Lt. George L. Grassi

During this years’ firearms competition Lt. Grassi obtained the highest score during the event.