The Newtown Township  Board of Supervisors awarded  the following Commendations to two Police Officers for their “exceptional actions while responding to a domestic disturbance last year. 

Officer Rawa and Officer Ferraro received Commendations of Merit for their exceptional actions on October 1, 2019 while investigating a domestic disturbance within the Society Place complex, officials said. 

Officials said the dispute  involved a mother and her 18-year old son, who was armed with a large kitchen knife.

Upon arrival, the male was located outside in the parking lot area, still armed with a knife, and he appeared emotionally unstable. They responded swiftly, immediately recognizing the mental health issues involved, and were able to diffuse the situation, gain compliance, and peacefully secure the 18-year old, all without injury to any persons present.

The young man was subsequently transported to a medical facility by police for mental health treatment.

This is an outstanding example of the de-escalation techniques used frequently by police at violent situations, which reinforces our desire of and commitment to life preservation and protection of the community, officials said.