For Immediate Release

May 23, 2017

For Further Information, Contact: Captain Derek Glenn (973) 877-9374

Or Public Information Officer Catherine Adams (973) 733-3995

Mayor Baraka and Director Ambrose to Host

Department of Public Safety’s 2017 Awards & Memorial Ceremony

Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka and Public Safety Director Anthony F. Ambrose will host the Department of Public Safety’s 2017 Annual Awards Memorial Ceremony at 1:30 p.m., Thursday, May, 25, 2017 at St. Lucy’s Church, 118 7th Avenue in Newark.

Medals of Honor, Merit and Excellence in Police Duty will be presented along with commendations to police officers and firefighters during the ceremony.

“Our police and firefighters put their lives on the line every day and their bodies, minds, hearts and souls into protecting us,” Mayor Baraka said. “Over the past few years, they have worked with us to transform and modernize their cultures and practices. They deserved to be honored, not just on the day of this ceremony, but on every day of the year.”

The awards, commemorating acts of distinction during year 2016, include the Director’s Award, Chief’s Award, Division Unit Award, Teamwork Award, Inter-Departmental Appreciation Award and Civilian Employee Recognition Award will also be presented.

The Law Enforcement Partnership Award will be presented to the New Jersey State Police, Essex County Sheriff Armando Fontoura and Essex County Prosecutor’s Office. And members of the Newark Police and Fire Divisions who gave their lives in the line of duty will also be observed during the ceremony.

“It’s important to set aside time to thank the men and women who bravely risk their lives for the safety of the people of the City of Newark,” Director Ambrose said. “It is both an honor and a privilege to serve alongside the individuals being recognized today. These dedicated and hardworking police officers and firefighters have far exceeded the call of duty in their service to our city’s residents and visitors.”

Who: Mayor Ras J. Baraka and Newark Public Safety Director Anthony Ambrose

W What: Department of Public Safety 2017 Awards & Memorial Ceremony

When: 1:30 p.m., Thursday, May 25, 2017

Where: St. Lucy’s Church, 118 7th Avenue, Newark

Note: Members of the media are required to arrive no later than 1:15 p.m. On-street parking is available.

Page 2 of 2