5 days ago
Monroe police officers hailed for bravery, professionalism during mental health crisis
MONROE – Three township police officers rescued a man experiencing a mental health crisis from a fire on May 17.
Sgt. Justin Caruso and Officers Wesley Panckeri and Marc Kramer responded to a welfare check, police said, where they encountered an uncooperative man experiencing a mental health crisis. He made multiple threats to harm officers if they attempted to enter the bedroom, according to police.
The officers attempted to talk to the man, but a short while after communication ceased, they saw smoke coming from the bedroom, according to police. Officers decided to force the entry, despite the threats of violence, due to the danger the potential fire posed, police said.
The officers found the man armed with a knife, and after safely subduing him, they removed him from the burning room, according to police.
Police, with the help of Monroe Township Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services, were able to extinguish the fire, police said.
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The man was taken to the hospital for medical treatment and psychological evaluation. The three officers were also taken to a local hospital for evaluation and were released the same day, according to police.
'This incident highlights the bravery, compassion, and professionalism of our officers,' stated Monroe Police Chief Griffin Banos. 'Despite the dangers they faced, they remained calm, made sound decisions under pressure, and ultimately saved a life. I am incredibly proud of their actions."
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Alexander Lewis is an award-winning reporter and photojournalist whose work spans many topics.
This article originally appeared on Monroe NJ cops hailed for bravery and professionalism during rescue
