Ritchie Honors Ogdensburg Police Department WITH Liberty Awards

State’s Highest Honor Presented in Recognition of Efforts During Amish Kidnapping

State Senator Patty Ritchie recently presented the New York State Senate Liberty Award to members of the Ogdensburg Police Department who assisted the St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department and other agencies with the investigation of surrounding the abduction and recovery of two Amish girls in August. 

“Members of law enforcement put their lives on the line each and every day to keep our communities safe,” said Senator Ritchie.  “When tragedy struck this past summer and two young Amish girls went missing, members of the Ogdensburg Police Department stepped up to the plate to assist with efforts to return them safely home.  Their bravery and willingness to come to the aid of their neighbors is to be commended and it is my pleasure to present them with the New York State Senate Liberty Award.”

In September, law enforcement who attend a special “Community Thank You” event, hosted by Senator Ritchie to recognize those who assisted with the search for the Amish girls, were also presented with the Liberty Award.  Those honored recently were unable to attend the event. 

Officers honored included the following:

Ogdensburg police Chief Richard J. Polniak Jr.

Lt. Andrew D. Kennedy

Lt. Harry J. McCarthy

Sgt. Fay B. Jenks

Sgt. Michael J. Bouchard

Det. Sgt. Robert H. Wescott

Sgt. Scott Reed

Det. David M. Layng

Det. Shawn R. Shaver

Det. Daniel C. Mousaw

Ptl. Jessica B. Rivers

Ptl. Jarret B. LeClair

Ptl. Joshua T. Vine

Ptl Jason A. Streeter

Ptl. Timothy J. Murray I

Ptl. Corey J. Maxner

Ptl. Ryan H. Polniak

Ptl. Keith D. Morgan

Ptl. Justin R. Polniak

The New York State Senate Liberty Award is one of the highest civilian honors a New Yorker can receive.  Similar to the national Congressional Gold Medal, the award is given to individuals who have merited special commendation for exceptional, heroic or humanitarian acts and achievement on behalf of their fellow New Yorkers.