New Paltz UPD honored with 2020 SUNY Police Chiefs Association Awards

Six members of the SUNY New Paltz University Police Department (UPD) will be honored for life-saving actions and outstanding professionalism at the 2020 Police Awards, hosted by the SUNY Police Chiefs Association. The event is scheduled for Jan. 19, 2021 and will be held virtually.

“The work to this community does not go unnoticed,” said Chief Mary Ritayik. “I commend the men and women of our University Police Department for their commitment to keeping our students and campus safe.”

This year, Lieutenant Ryan Williams will be recognized with the Life-Saving Award for his actions during an incident that occurred on Jan. 24, 2020, in the village of New Paltz. This is the third year in a row that Williams will be honored with this award.

Lieutenant William Shaw and Officer Mallory Nelson will be recognized with the Professional Service Award for their response to the above incident.

Officer Steven Shadick, Officer Shawn Mattison and Officer Greg Candela will be recognized with the Professional Service Award for their efforts in a drug trafficking investigation that led to an arrest.

The SUNY Police Chiefs Association awards University Police who have demonstrated an ability to respond appropriately to emergencies and keep students safe during the prior year.

Whether these officers were responding to threats of violence or potential drug overdoses, they all go above and beyond expectations.

Visit the SUNY New Paltz University Police Department online to learn more about their work in maintaining a safe and secure campus environment.