01/30/2026
Eastampton Township Police Department Banquet: Celebrating Dedication and Service
The Eastampton Township Police Department recently held its awards banquet, hosted by the Eastampton Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Lodge #146. This event served as a heartfelt gathering to honor the outstanding contributions of its officers and staff who exemplify commitment, leadership, and service to the township.
Among the evening's key recognitions were the prestigious awards for Supervisor of the Year and Officer of the Year. Corporal Daniel Graham was named Supervisor of the Year, celebrated for his exemplary leadership, strategic oversight, and ability to inspire his team in high-pressure situations. His dedication to mentoring junior officers and ensuring operational excellence has made a lasting impact on the department's effectiveness.
Officer Zachary Browne received the Officer of the Year award, acknowledging his exceptional performance in the line of duty. Browne's proactive approach to community policing, quick decision-making during incidents, and unwavering professionalism have earned him respect from both colleagues and residents alike. During the 2025 year, Ptl. Browne was also awarded with the Prosecutor’s Law Enforcement Commendation for his actions involving a motor vehicle accident in a mutual aid call for service in Mt. Holly in which he and officers of MHPD pulled a subject from a burning vehicle.
The banquet also spotlighted community contributions with the Community Award presented to SRO Kelley Horne. Recognized for her tireless work as a dedicated officer at Eastampton Community School (ECS), SRO Horne has played a pivotal role in building positive relationships between law enforcement and young students. Her initiatives in school safety, youth outreach, and assisting educational programs have strengthened community ties and promoted a safer learning environment.
A particularly poignant moment came with the Lifetime Service Award bestowed upon Tommy Reed. With an impressive upcoming 40 years of dedicated service to the township of Eastampton this June. Reed's career spans decades of evolution in policing having retired as a distinguished Sergeant with 25 years of service in Eastampton. After retirement, Tommy returned to ETPD serving as a Class I and Class II where he currently is assigned to the court division. From frontline duties to advisory roles, his enduring commitment has shaped the department's culture of integrity and resilience, leaving an indelible legacy for future generations.
Additional Award winners:
- Hard Hat Award (most overtime hours): Awarded to Patrolman Raymond Harney, recognizing his tireless efforts and extra hours devoted to protecting the township.
- Golden Cuffs Award (Most arrests): Also awarded to Patrolman Raymond Harney, commending his proactive approach in apprehending suspects and maintaining public safety.
- Most DWI Arrests: Awarded to Corporal Richard Maerten, for his vigilance in combating impaired driving and ensuring safer roads for all residents.
Special Recognition:
- Life Save Award: Presented to Corporal Mulhern, Patrolman Tippin, and Patrolman DiLoreto, honoring their heroic actions in life-saving situations that demonstrated exceptional bravery and quick thinking under pressure:
“On October 16, 2025 at 1309 hours, these officers responded to a medical emergency involving an unresponsive female who was not breathing. Upon arrival, they quickly assessed the situation and immediately initiated CPR. Their decisive and coordinated efforts successfully revived the individual and sustained her until advanced medical personnel arrived on scene. Not only did their quick response assist in sustaining life, but saved her life that day.”
The event underscored the FOP Lodge #146's ongoing mission to support its members and give back to the community through recognition, camaraderie, and charitable efforts.
Cpl. Horton whose tenure has come to an end as FOP President after serving 4 years commented on the occasion, “As someone who grew up in Eastampton, my hope was always to give back to this place and leave it better than I found it. I hope this event is something that brings us all closer and really hope that our officers and loved ones that were invited felt the appreciation amongst their peers, to know that you have people that are sharing the same experience. What our officers endure from the schedule and calls for service is nothing short of remarkable and the people that wear the Eastampton patch are some of the most brave and caring people I know. I have no doubt in my mind that each officer cares about this town and its residents and they are always doing their best to make sure this township and its guests feel safe. My overall hope in sharing this with our residents is that we continue to highlight the best this town has to offer and let everybody know you have a department full of people from administration, front office staff, detective bureau, and of course our patrol division is something that this town can be proud of.”
Ptl. Picou has since been elected as the new FOP President and is poised to continue the tradition and legacy of the Eastampton FOP.
Attendees left inspired by stories of valor and service, reaffirming the department's vital partnership with the residents of Eastampton. As the township continues to grow, such celebrations remind us of the human element behind the badge—individuals who go above and beyond to protect and serve.
