BY SCOTT STIFFLER | Looking back on the year that was during its waning days is annual practice of publications, politicians, and pundits. But one 2024 event got the jump all of them by recognizing the best efforts of local law enforcement on December 12, 2024. That’s when the Greenwich Village Chelsea Chamber of Commerce (GVCCC) held its annual Safe City, Safe Streets (SCSS) Luncheon.

Founded in 1949 by a group of visionary entrepreneurs, GVCCC’s membership roster has expanded past the two nabes of its namesake to include the SoHo, NoHo, Union Square, and Flatiron communities. Last year’s SCSS Luncheon reflected this coverage area by bestowing Officer of the Year awards on NYPD officers from the 6th, 9th, 10th, 13th, and Midtown South Precincts. (The 10th & 13th Precincts are of particular interest to Chelsea Community News, as they’re located in the heart of our coverage area.)

“These awards recognize the officers’ exceptional service in maintaining safety and security in their communities… These men and women, through their exceptional dedication and commitment, have demonstrated what it truly means to serve and protect. They have not only upheld the highest standards of law enforcement but have also played an invaluable role in building stronger, safer communities.” said Jesse Gericke, Executive Director of the Chamber.

Representing the 10th Precinct was Police Officer Ackroy Lashley. Having joined the NYPD a mere two years ago, the volume and breadth of accomplishments already amassed by PO Lashley earned him a place among 2024’s distinguished group of honorees. “Officer Lashley,” noted the SCSS program, “has excelled as a problem-solver and crime fighter, consistently exceeding expectations and contributing to the precinct’s safety and quality of life.” Among the “over 30 significant arrests” made by Officer Lashley in 2024: In May, following the assault of a 66-year-old man, Lashley arrested the perpetrator (who had 38 prior arrests and two active warrants); and in October, he apprehended individuals connected to a robbery at Alaska Deli.

Representing the 13th Precinct was Police Officer Saul Rivera, who joined the NYPD on February 24, 2021, “and soon proved his dedication and skill,” read the SCSS program, also noting, “Known for his high-quality arrest enforcement and exceeding performance expectations, he has become an invaluable asset to the precinct and community.” Of particular note was a September 24, 2024 inident in which Officer Rivera and his partner “responded to an assault incident where a suspect had struck a 77 year-old woman with a ceramic plate… During the apprehension, the suspect struck Officer Rivera in the face with a ceramic plate, causing severe injuries. Despite this, Officer Rivera successfully detained the suspect.” (Those injuries required over 100 stitches and treatment for a fractured right hand.)

Police Officer Michael Duquette of Midtown Precinct South was also an Officer of the Year. As a Neighborhood Coordination Officer—tasked with focusing on one sector of the precinct as well as hosting quarterly Build the Block meetigs—Officer Duquette has, noted the SCSS program, “thrived in this position. In the past year alone, Officer Duquette has effected 75 arrests, 36 of which were Felony arrests.” Rounding out the group of honorees were the 6th Precinct’s Detective Evrim Can and Police Officer Steven Lora-Diaz, along with Police Officer Klarens Desi of the 9th Precinct.

Additionally, the SCSS Luncheon presented the 3rd Annual Neighborhood Leadership Award to Angel Rodriguez, “the visionary founder and director of Avenues for Justice” whose focus on at-risk youth “has transformed countless lives, providing support and alternatives to incarceration that are crucial for a brighter future.

For more information on the GVCC, visit their website by clicking here.

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