By Phil Corso
Commanding Officer Jason Huerta of the 111th Precinct, said there were a lot of people who contributed to the overall success of the department throughout the year, but for the six honorees at last week’s annual community council awards, their service made the selection process easy.
“They stand out for being some of the most committed and dedicated,” Huerta said.
Jack Fried, president of the 111th Precinct Community Council, said the group wanted to recognize the year’s best officers by going above and beyond with the annual ceremony inside the Ramada Hotel, at 220-33 Northern Blvd.
“We wanted to thank the officers, but also their families,” Fried said. “They are the ones who give their time to us to help make the 111th safe.”
Top honors included the year’s best police officer, supervisor, detective, civilian, auxiliary officer and explorer for their work between June 2011 and May 2012. Winners received plaques, which were financially sponsored by the Jefferson Democratic Club.
“We have been so impressed with the 111th Precinct. We are their biggest fans,” said Democratic District Leader Carol Gresser. “They make our community a great place where everyone wants to live.”
Officer James Reilly, who received the Police Officer of the Year Award, spent more than seven years in the department before being recognized with the award. Huerta said he was instrumental in 57 arrests throughout the year and 283 in total, leading to a reduction in robberies around area schools.
“James leaves no stone unturned when looking for perps,” Huerta said. “His results are a true testament to his work ethic.”
The award for Supervisor of the Year went to Sgt. Nicholas Gravino, who joined the 111th Precinct in 2007. Huerta said Gravino’s work as an anti-crime sergeant helped curb the area’s residential burglaries and school-related robberies.
The Detective of the Year Award went to John Reinle, who Huerta said helped secure more than 300 arrests and was the precinct’s go-to guy for the most difficult assignments.
Angie Matthews, who works in the precinct’s roll call office, was named the Civilian of the Year.
“Angie has been a reliable and motivated asset to the precinct,” Huerta said. “We appreciate all of her hard work and dedication.”
Auxiliary Officer of the Year went to Ryan Faro for his extensive volunteer service. Huerta said Faro dedicated between 30 and 35 hours of volunteer work to the precinct each month while working at a full-time job and attending college.
“Ryan is always ready to help and goes above and beyond,” Huerta said.
Debbie Ali received the honor of Explorer of the Year, for what Huerta said was for her early experience and positive attitude with the precinct while preparing to graduate from Cardozo High School.
The awards were presented in the company of 111th Precinct family, friends and area officials, including Community Board 11 Chairman Jerry Iannece. A representative from the office of state Sen. Tony Avella (D-Bayside) also stopped by the meeting to give each honoree a congratulatory citation.
Reach reporter Phil Corso by e-mail at pcorso@cnglocal.com or by phone at 718-260-4573.
