Ballfield Renamed After Fallen Police Officer Russel Timoshenko

Andrew J Lanza

July 9, 2008

Staten Island – State Senator Andrew J. Lanza (R-I, Staten Island), Congressman Vito J. Fossella (R-I, Staten Island/Brooklyn) and Councilman James S. Oddo (R-Staten Island) announced today that upon their request, Commissioner Adrian Benepe of the New York City Parks Department will officially commemorate the life of Police Officer Russell Timoshenko by renaming the "Midland Beach Soccer Field" in his honor.

In Jully of 2007, the entire city mourned the loss of one of New York City’s Finest murdered in the line of duty. Police Officer Russell Timoshenko, born August 18, 1983 and a resident of the Bay Terrace section of Staten Island, had his entire career ahead of him. Struck down in the prime of his life, this tragic event for the community and his family was shocking and overwhelming.

To honor his life, the three lawmakers joined together to recommend a fitting tribute – the renaming of the Midland Beach Soccer Field. In conversations with Tatyana Timoshenko, the mother of Police Officer Timoshenko, regarding her tragic loss, she related stories of how Russell played soccer with friends in his neighborhood and was an avid lacrosse player at Tottenville High School and in college. The new "Police Office Russell Timoshenko Field" will be a lasting reminder of a great public servant who dedicated his life to his community and made the ultimate sacrifice so others could live in the safest and greatest big city in the world.

"Police Officer Timoshenko was a hero to us all. He put his life on the line every day for all New Yorkers. We can never bring back Russell but the renaming of the Midland Beach Soccer Field will ensure that his life is honored for years to come.", Senator Lanza said.

"Officer Timoshenko served our City with honor and heroism and made his family and all of Staten Island proud. It is important that we honor his life so that future generations of Staten Islanders know that this brave young man made the ultimate sacrifice protecting our City.", Congressman Fossella said.

"Police Officer Timoshenko is a true Staten Island hero. It is particularly appropriate to permanently commemorate his life and remember his sacrifice by naming the Midland Beach Soccer field in his honor.", Councilman Oddo said.

Police Officer Timoshenko served in the New York City Police Department for a year and a half and was 23 years old when he was killed. He served in the 71^st Precinct in Brooklyn. After his death, Timoshenko had been posthumously promoted to detective.