05/14/2026
On Wednesday, May 13, the Smithtown Department of Public Safety held its Annual Public Safety Awards Ceremony at Town Hall. The event, held each year during National Police Week, recognizes the extraordinary service, bravery, and dedication of several members of the Townβs peace officers.
The ceremony began with the promotion of Fire Marshal Matthew Raia to Senior Fire Marshal. Fire Marshal Raia was recognized for his dedicated service, leadership, and extensive experience in fire prevention and investigation efforts throughout the Town of Smithtown.
Following the promotion, Sergeant Brendan Dennihy received two separate Meritorious Service Awards for heroic and proactive law enforcement actions.
The first award recognized Sgt. Dennihyβs response to a residential structure fire in Kings Park on December 16, 2025. Upon arriving at the scene ahead of fire personnel, Sgt. Dennihy entered the smoke-filled residence with a fire extinguisher in an effort to suppress the rapidly spreading kitchen fire. His swift actions helped contain the blaze and protect the residence until firefighters arrived.
The second Meritorious Service Award honored Sgt. Dennihy and Fire Marshal Kyle McCarthy for action taken during a patrol operation near the Kings Park Hike and Bike Trail on April 4, 2026. As Sergeant Brendan Dennihy was conducting a patrol check of the Trail, when he observed a Ford sedan with temporary Virginia License plates parked conspicuously adjacent to the trail near one of the buildings at the Nissequogue River State Park in an unauthorized area. Sgt. Dennihy observed a male waving towards two additional males while placing scrap metal in the vehicle. Upon approaching the subjects Sgt. Dennihy observed tools used for removing metal and scrap metal inside of the vehicle.
Sergeant Dennihy requested additional units while attempting to get identification from the subjects. Upon arrival of Fire Marshal Kyle McCarthy and Park Ranger Michael Abbazia, Sgt. Dennihy observed spent shell casings inside in the center console of the vehicle. During the ensuing investigation, a loaded handgun was observed protruding from under the passenger seat of the car. The subjects were quickly taken into custody, and charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the 2nd - Loaded Firearm; Criminal Possession of a Weapon 3rd - Ammunition Feeding Device; and Criminal Possession of a Weapon 4th- Non-Citizen.
Park Ranger Leyland Crocilla was then presented with the Meritorious Service Award for his lifesaving response during the historic January 2026 blizzard. Responding in severe whiteout conditions to reports of two individuals who had fallen through the ice at Gibbs Pond Town Park, Ranger Crocilla arrived first on scene and helped rescue a father and son trapped in freezing waters. His swift response and calm actions under extreme conditions were instrumental in preventing a tragic outcome.
The Department Recognition Award was presented to the members of the Old Northport Road Task Force for their extensive work addressing longstanding zoning, property maintenance, and quality-of-life issues along the industrial corridor.
Honorees included:
β’ Karen Sylvester
β’ Brett Bailey
β’ George Godberson
β’ Bryan Sinclair
Working alongside the Town Attorneyβs Office, Planning Department, and Building Department, the task force has issued 172 summonses since September 2024 in an ongoing effort to improve compliance, revitalize blighted properties, and protect the quality of life for Smithtown residents.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of the 2026 Peace Officer of the Year Award to Sergeant Brendan Dennihy. Chief Lohmann praised Sgt. Dennihy for his leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to public service.
Throughout his career, Sgt. Brendan Dennihy has consistently demonstrated initiative, leadership, and dedication to training and mentoring younger officers while maintaining an exceptional record of enforcement and investigative work.
Congratulations to all of the award winners, and thank you to all the men and women of public safety for their continued service to our residents!
