Chamber Hosts 2026 Police Officer of the Year Awards
The Staten Island Chamber of Commerce proudly honored the dedication, courage, and professionalism of members of the New York City Police Department during its annual Police Officer of the Year Awards Luncheon, held June 17, 2026, at the Vanderbilt at South Beach. The longstanding event brought together law enforcement leaders, elected officials, business leaders, and community members to recognize the extraordinary men and women who work tirelessly to keep Staten Island safe.
This year's event was made possible through the generous support of Signature Sponsors Gerald Peters Inc., Northfield Bank, Honda of Staten Island, Northwell Staten Island University Hospital, Philip Morris International, and Sottile Security International. Partner Sponsors included the Carl V. Bini Memorial Fund, Colonial Funeral Home, Italianissimo Ristorante, Richmond University Medical Center, SERVPRO Team Allen, and Verizon.
Among the distinguished guests in attendance were Borough President Vito Fossella, District Attorney Michael McMahon, Assemblyman Michael Reilly, City Councilman Frank Morano, and Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis, as well as senior NYPD leadership, including Patrol Borough Staten Island Commanding Officer Assistant Chief Melissa Eger. Chamber Board Chair Carol Decina and members of the Chamber Board of Directors were also present in support of the event.
Richmond County District Attorney Michael McMahon presented the Prosecutor of the Year Award, which was awarded to Mark Palladino, Executive Assistant District Attorney for Trials and Court Operations, for his dedication to public service and his contributions to the administration of justice in Richmond County.
The Chamber and NYPD also recognized each of the 2025 Detectives of the Month and Police Officers of the Month, honoring outstanding police work performed throughout the year. These monthly honorees demonstrated exceptional bravery, investigative skill, and commitment to protecting Staten Island residents.
Detective of the Year
The 2025 Detective of the Year Award was presented to Detectives Diaz, El Maadawy, and Cardinale for their extraordinary actions during a dangerous January 2025 investigation. While conducting surveillance related to a homicide investigation and potential retaliatory violence, the detectives observed two suspicious individuals near the crime scene. During the operation, one of the suspects opened fire on the officers' vehicle, with a bullet striking within inches of Detective Diaz. Despite the immediate danger, the detectives pursued the suspects, established a perimeter, apprehended both individuals, recovered a firearm, and secured search warrants that led to the recovery of additional evidence. Their courage, composure under fire, and commitment to public safety exemplify the highest standards of investigative police work.
Police Officers of the Year
In a rare tie, the Chamber recognized two groups of officers whose actions demonstrated extraordinary valor and professionalism.
The first Police Officers of the Year Award was presented to Police Officers John Hoeh and Gzim Vukovic of the 120th Precinct. In January 2025, the officers responded to an urgent officer-needs-assistance call after members of an NYPD unit came under gunfire. Quickly canvassing the area, Officers Hoeh and Vukovic located and apprehended the armed suspect responsible for firing at police officers and recovered a loaded .38 caliber revolver. Their swift response helped bring a dangerous situation to a safe conclusion and resulted in the apprehension of an individual who had allegedly attempted to kill police officers.
The second Police Officers of the Year Award was presented to Lieutenant Daniel Hachemeister, Lieutenant Vincent Mevo, Police Officer Andrew Brown, Police Officer Matthew Baldassano, Police Officer Anthony Gitto, Police Officer Thomas Dambakly, and Police Officer Nikolaos Kontarinis. In May 2025, after a vehicle fled from officers during a traffic stop, the suspect opened fire on responding police officers, discharging multiple rounds into a marked police vehicle. Despite being under direct gunfire, the officers demonstrated exceptional tactical discipline, leadership, and courage. Through coordinated action, they safely apprehended the armed suspect, recovered firearms, and prevented further violence. Their actions ultimately led to an indictment that included multiple counts of Attempted Murder of a Police Officer.
The Staten Island Chamber of Commerce congratulates all of the 2025 honorees and extends its deepest gratitude to the members of the New York City Police Department whose dedication, sacrifice, and service continue to strengthen and protect Staten Island's communities every day.
Photos by Steve White, Staten Arts Photography
