Senate Resolution No. 292

BY: Senator GRIFFO

CONGRATULATING Sergeant John Abel upon the
occasion of his retirement after 20 years of
distinguished service to the Utica Police Department

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and
honor those distinguished officers who would devote themselves to public
service, demonstrating great courage and diligence in providing for the
care and welfare of the citizens of their communities and this great
Empire State; and

WHEREAS, Within every community of the State of New York there are
certain individuals who, by virtue of their commitment and dedication,
command the respect and admiration of their community for their
exemplary contributions and service on behalf of others; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to congratulate
Sergeant John Abel upon the occasion of his retirement after 20 years of
distinguished service to the Utica Police Department; and

WHEREAS, John Abel began his illustrious career with the Utica
Police Department in both the Patrol Division and what is now known as
the Crime Scene Unit; and

WHEREAS, As a Field Training Officer, John Abel was responsible for
instructing, modeling, and preparing officers for the responsibilities
of the profession; in this capacity, he served as an incredible role
model and was steadfast in his unwavering support to his trainees; and

WHEREAS, In February of 2015, John Abel was promoted to Sergeant,
the esteemed position from which he will officially retire; and

WHEREAS, For the past two decades, Sergeant John Abel rendered
faithful, conscientious, and valuable service to the Utica Police
Department, earning the admiration, esteem, and affection of his
colleagues; and

WHEREAS, Sergeant John Abel, with his proficient leadership and love
for the City of Utica, truly epitomized the roll of a community police
officer; he tirelessly and selflessly served the residents of his
beloved community with compassion, integrity, and fairness, attributes
which will forever serve as an example for his fellow officers; and

WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the occurrence of such a compassionate
blending of strength, leadership, intellect, and commitment as that
demonstrated by Sergeant John Abel over a lifetime of sacrifice and
dedication to others; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those
dedicated public servants who unselfishly devote their lives to the
preservation of order and the protection of others are worthy and due
full praise for their commitment and noble endeavors; now, therefore, be
it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
congratulate Sergeant John Abel upon the occasion of his retirement
after 20 years of distinguished service to the Utica Police Department,
and to wish him well in all his future endeavors; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Sergeant John Abel.