santa clara police

CHIEF’S REVIEW

awards ceremony

CITATIONS

Police Commendation Ribbon

POLICE COMMENDATION RIBBON – Stephanie Knight

During her three years assigned to the SCPD Investigations Division, Detective Stephanie Knight established herself as an outstanding investigator and exemplary teammate. She provided expert oversight and investigative techniques into approximately 380 fraud-related cases, some of which were complex investigations involving millions of dollars. Detective Knight was also collaterally assigned as a senior member of the SCPD Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) team. Under Detective Knight’s leadership, 17 newly hired CSI personnel were trained and equipped. Detective Knight led or assisted in approximately 75 CSI crime scene processing investigations. She also provided analysis of approximately 73 digital devices resulting in 47 detailed reports. Detective Knight’s professional performance combined with her untiring efforts and commitment to SCPD has resulted in a significant impact on the day-to-day operations and long-term excellence of SCPD investigations and operations.

POLICE COMMENDATION RIBBON – Ryan Seto 

On 9/30/2022, SCPD Officers took a fraud report at Achronix Semiconductor Corporation. based out of Santa Clara. The total amount of funds lost was $178,500. Detective Ryan Seto immediately went to work. Detective Seto has established himself as a tenacious investigator, particularly in matters involving fraud and cryptocurrency. Over the course of several months, Detective Seto was able to determine the funds were transferred to an account used for cryptocurrency exchange. After authoring numerous search warrants and/or seizure order, Detective Seto successfully seized $174,000, almost the entire original amount taken. Detective Seto then presented a check in that amount to the victim, who was ecstatic. Detective Seto’s work in this case was a stellar example of diligence, competence, and tenacity.  

POLICE COMMENDATION RIBBON – Bryan Williams

On January 23, 2023, a woman was brutally beaten and stabbed by her boyfriend, resulting in extensive, life-threatening injuries. SCPD Investigations was able to compile a solid case, resulting in the issuance of a no-bail warrant for torture, mayhem, strangulation, and assault with a deadly weapon against the suspect. The suspect fled the area and proved difficult to locate, eluding investigators for months. Although assigned to the Homeland Security and Special Events unit as the Intelligence Sergeant, Sergeant Bryan Williams took an interest in the case. Above and beyond the role and expectations of his assignment, he offered his assistance. Sergeant Williams authored a trap and trace, and pen register for the suspect’s Google account. This proved to be crucial to apprehending the suspect. After evading capture for almost three months, the suspect was apprehended within days of Sergeant Williams’ intervention. Sergeant Williams’ devotion to duty and dedication to the service of justice is extremely admirable, and it reflects great credit upon himself and his unit.

POLICE COMMENDATION RIBBON – Patrick Gacayan

From 2020 to 2023, Officer Patrick Gacayan was assigned to the SCPD Community Response Team. During his tenure, Officer Gacayan epitomized what it means to be a Community Response Team Officer. He led countless abatements of problem residences and properties that were a continuous draw on police resources. Officer Gacayan’s efforts in combatting human trafficking were particularly noteworthy. He assisted numerous other agencies with human trafficking prevention operations, conducted inspections of massage establishments, and served search warrants at residential brothels. Officer Gacayan’s efforts to combat blight related to homelessness were also a highlight. He identified encampments, offered resources to the homeless, and coordinated clean-ups of affected areas. Officer Gacayan’s efforts were exemplary and outstanding over the entire three-year period.

POLICE COMMENDATION RIBBON – AJ Pianto and Raymond Boales

On August 6, 2023, Officers AJ Pianto and Raymond Boales responded to a reported traffic collision involving a solo vehicle. Upon arrival, they noticed the driver of the vehicle was unconscious and his breathing was agonal. They reacted quickly and appropriately by removing the driver from the vehicle. Officer Pianto began assessing the driver’s breathing and retrieving medical equipment. Officer Boales recognized the driver may be suffering from an opioid overdose, prompting the officers to administer Narcan. It was determined that the driver, in fact, had abused fentanyl, and the Narcan was successful in overcoming the effects of the drug. The actions of Officers Pianto and Boales prevented a clear medical emergency from becoming potentially worse, and their care for a citizen in need was exemplary. 

POLICE COMMENDATION RIBBON – Tyeler Fleckner

On May 5, 2023, a domestic violence occurred at the Normandy House Lounge in Santa Clara. During this incident, the victim suffered extensive injuries and her vehicle was stolen. A Ramey warrant authorized and brought to SET Detective Tyeler Fleckner. Detective Fleckner worked tirelessly to apprehend the suspect utilizing a ping warrant, going to the suspect’s employment, and writing numerous social media warrants. Eventually, Detective Fleckner learned the suspect fled to Mexico. Detective Fleckner continued his efforts, including coordinating with the US Marshalls, and even building a rapport with the victim’s mother. Detective Fleckner’s tireless efforts eventually paid off in late September when he wrote yet another warrant for Apple iCloud information. This led to the discovery of the suspect’s new cell phone number. A new ping warrant was sought and issued, and the suspect was finally taken into custody shortly thereafter. This incident is a shining example of Detective Fleckner’s patience and tenacity to complete the mission, and is in keeping with the high standards of the Santa Clara Police Department.

POLICE COMMENDATION RIBBON – Troy Morgan, Leslie Loretto, Kristen Moye, Logan Clevenger, Kylee Palma, Saskia Lagergren

2023 was a challenging year for SCPD Communication. Departures led to staffing being dwindled to under 50%. The Senior Communications team of Logan Clevenger, Leslie Loretto, Troy Morgan, Kristen Moye, and Kylee Palma trained four new full-time employees, two per diem dispatchers, and multiple officers who volunteered to assist. With the number of personnel being trained simultaneously, the willingness of the Senior Communications group to take on this daunting training workload was critically important. SCPD Communications also faced the departure of the Communications Center Operations Manager in October of 2023.  With no immediate replacements, there was a need for an immediate solution to maintain operations and support the already stressed communications center. Captain Saskia Lagergren stepped in to oversee the dispatch center, and the Senior Communications team then expanded their supervisory duties to maintain smoother operations. The performance of these employees in 2023 is a stellar example of teamwork, dedication, and selfless service. 

Police Achievement Ribbon

POLICE ACHIEVEMENT RIBBON – Sarah Keith

On 1/19/23, Officer Sarah Keith and her partners responded to 865 Pomeroy Ave #107B to investigate a disturbance. While at the residence, Officer Keith noted items inside which matched property taken during a string of recent armed robberies. She also observed distinct tattoos on a juvenile at the apartment which matched tattoos on the suspect from video surveillance of the robberies. Her observations were the critical lead which led to the suspect's identification. A search warrant service was later conducted at the residence, and the suspect was arrested for five counts of armed robbery. Officer Keith’s investigatory skills and situational awareness set the example for others to follow

POLICE ACHIEVEMENT RIBBON – Cesar Rodriguez, Jessica Smith, Tyeler Fleckner, Todd Miyabara, Shaun Eagen, Vanessa Cuellar, Jacob Ponte, Jeremy Schmidt, Katherine Povio, Marianne Siu

On 1/28/23 a caller reported to SCPD Communications that people were in his house refusing to leave. It was determined that the caller was in some sort of altered mental state. A separate caller reported that, in fact, the male subject was armed with a handgun and holding five victims hostage. Officers quickly responded and established containment and a react team. When officers contacted the suspect verbally though the front window of the home, separation was created between the suspect and five victims. This allowed the victims to be directed by Dispatchers to a safe location with waiting Officers outside of the residence. Negotiations with the suspect eventually resulted in his peaceful surrender. The bravery and solid performance of all involved employees resulted in a successful conclusion to a complex and dangerous incident.

POLICE ACHIEVEMENT RIBBON – Vanessa Cuellar and Max Nielepko

On July 15, 2023, Officer Cuellar led a group effort to purchase and deliver necessary clothes and other items to a family in need. Officer Cuellar had contacted the family previously and learned that the family were recent arrivals to the United States. Officer Cuellar noticed a child in the family who was roughly the same age as her own daughter. Officer Cuellar took items from her own home to provide to the family. She also took the extra step of purchasing other items from a local store out of her own pocket. Officer Cuellar then organized other members of her team to deliver the items to the grateful family. Sergeant Max Nielepko, after hearing of Officer Cuellar’s generosity, reimbursed Officer Cuellar for her expenses, although Officer Cuellar made no such request. This incident is a stellar example of going above and beyond to help others in need and build strong ties with the community.

POLICE ACHIEVEMENT RIBBON – James Wright and Ronald Miranda

On July 2, 2023, a stabbing incident occurred in the stands of Levi’s Stadium during the Mexico v. Qatar soccer match. The victim was stabbed once in the upper chest, resulting in a significant wound and blood loss. Although it was determined the wound was not life threatening, it was clear that the victim was in need of immediate medical attention. Officer James Wright and Detective Ronald Miranda were working near the location of the incident and responded quickly. Detective Miranda applied pressure to the wound, using his glove to form an ad hoc chest seal, while Officer Wright obtained a proper chest seal and applied it to the victim’s wound. They then took steps to speed the victim to medical personnel for transport to a hospital. Detective Miranda and Officer Wright displayed a calm demeanor under pressure, and their actions likely prevented a significant injury from becoming worse.

POLICE ACHIEVEMENT RIBBON – Matthew Floresca

On July 21, 2023, Officers responded to the report of a man down in front of 2870 Kaiser Dr. When Officers arrived, they located an unresponsive male with agonal respiration. Of all the Officers who responded, Officer Matthew Floresca’s actions stood out as exemplary. Officer Floresca immediately checked the subject’s airway, breathing, and respirations. He correctly concluded that CPR was necessary, and he performed CPR flawlessly. At the time medical personnel arrived on scene, the subject still had a faint pulse, likely due to Officer Floresca’s actions. Although the subject ultimately passed away a short time later at a local hospital, Officer Floresca’s actions served as an outstanding example to other Officers. His calm demeanor and skills competency under pressure are to be commended.

POLICE ACHIEVEMENT RIBBON – James Reeves and Samuel Miceli

On 9/11/2023, Officers Reeves and Miceli responded to the Motel 6 on a disturbance call. The manager was upset about two small children "being loud" while playing outside. The manager wanted police to kick them out even though they were paid up for one more day. The family was homeless and consisted of a single mom and 3 kids. Officer Reeves did a great job of persuading the manager to allow them to stay for the night. Officer Reeves also discovered the family had their car seats stolen recently, and although they had transportation to their housing appointment the following day, it was not safe for the kids. Officers Reeves and Miceli took it upon themselves to drive to Target and purchase car seats for the two 4-year-old children. The actions of these Officers reflect great dedication to the SCPD's Mission Statement and its Core Values.

POLICE ACHIEVEMENT RIBBON – Josh Higgins, Kevin McColloch and Hilda Velasco

On October 17, 2023, SCPD Officers were dispatched to an unknown disturbance at 1495 Don Avenue, in Santa Clara. Upon arrival, Officer Kevin McColloch was able to contact an involved party and determine the apartment unit where the disturbance occurred. Upon arrival at the apartment unit, Officer McColloch was greeted at the door by a woman bleeding profusely from a stab wound to her chest. Despite a chaotic and blood-soaked scene, Officer McColloch provided updates to incoming units resulting in the successful arrest of the suspect, and the procurement of medical equipment. Officer Joshua Higgins and Officer Hilda Velasco arrived at the apartment shortly thereafter. The three K-9 officers worked quickly to secure the scene and provide medical treatment, including the application of a chest seal, to the victim. The victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Although the wound was determined to be non-life threatening, the actions of the involved officers was exemplary. Officers McColloch, Higgins, and Velasco brought great credit to their K-9 unit, and the Santa Clara Police Department.

POLICE ACHIEVEMENT RIBBON – Erica Ewing

On October 23, 2023, SCPD officers attempted to apprehend the driver of a stolen vehicle. During enforcement action, the suspect rammed multiple police cars, thereby assaulting officers with a deadly weapon. The ensuing pursuit had to be terminated due to danger to citizens. Officers began trying to identify the unknown suspect, turning to Records Specialist Erica Ewing for assistance. RS Ewing was specifically sought out due to her excellent track record and high level of competency. RS Ewing scoured multiple databases and performed no less than high-level detective work to ultimately identify the suspect. An arrest warrant was obtained, and the suspect was later apprehended and extradited back to Santa Clara County. It is unlikely this desired outcome would have been achieved if not for the outstanding work of RS Ewing. Her actions reflect great credit upon herself, the Records unit, and the Santa Clara Police Department.

Unit Achievement Ribbon

UNIT ACHIEVEMENT RIBBON – Ronald Miranda, Stephanie Knight, Ryan Seto, Justin Mead, Stephen Stek, Samuel Miceli and Zachary Wicht

On April 15, 2022, an armed residential invasion robbery occurred at 3569 Agate Dr #2. The suspect held a female victim at gunpoint while he stole her cell phone and other items from her apartment. The suspect then set the apartment on fire while the victim was still inside. Detective Ryan Seto began investigation the use of the victim’s credit cards, resulting in the identification of a phone number associated to the suspect. Detectives Ronald Miranda and Stephanie Knight then produced a Trak flier and sent the flier to a law enforcement agency in Florida. Using facial recognition software, a suspect was identified. SET Detectives Justin Mead, Stephen Stek, Zachary Wicht, and Samuel Miceli later surveilled and apprehended the suspect. Virtually all the stolen property in this case was also recovered, as was a firearm. This case was an excellent example of teamwork and collaboration amongst all the different components of the SCPD Investigations Division.

UNIT ACHIEVEMENT RIBBON – Josh Higgins (Ozzy), Kevin McColloch (Tank), Hilda Velasco (Kiro) and Cesar Rodriguez (Maxx)

This award is presented to the Santa Clara Police Department K-9 Unit in recognition for their outstanding contributions to the department, specifically their assistance to the Special Enforcement Team (SET). SET is tasked with the apprehension of the most dangerous criminals SCPD investigates, many of whom are armed. The SCPD K-9 unit is regularly called upon to assist with these efforts. Each of the K-9 handlers and their Police Service Dogs have answered the call for assistance time and time again, even though they are almost always off-duty when called upon. Their presence has directly resulted in the successful de-escalation and apprehension of countless dangerous criminals. The level of expertise, professionalism, and high level of training are particularly notable highlights. The value of these Officers and their K-9 partners cannot be overstated, and they exemplify true teamwork, selfless service, and a dedication to mission accomplishment.

UNIT ACHIEVEMENT RIBBON – AJ Pianto, Raymond Boales, Nathan Crescini, Kristen Moye and Leslie Loretto

On November 3rd, 2023, an armed carjacking was reported in the area of 875 Burbank Drive. Officers AJ Pianto and Nathan Crescini established surveillance in anticipation the vehicle may return. The vehicle did return and immediately fled upon seeing the officers. A pursuit ensued that lasted approximately 20 minutes and covered 20 miles. During the pursuit Officers Pianto, Crescini and Raymond Boales provided clear and calm radio updates as the suspect traveled on unfamiliar streets. As the pursuit was unfolding, Senior Communication Dispatchers Leslie Loretto and Kristen Moye made multiple notifications to outside jurisdictions and reserved a south bay law channel to allow intercommunication between agencies. This proved crucial as the vehicle eventually stopped in San Jose, and the passenger fled on foot, but was quickly apprehended. This incident highlights the possibilities when highly capable SCPD employees come together to achieve a common goal. The actions of all personnel involved reflect great credit upon themselves and the Santa Clara Police Department.

LIFESAVING AWARD

LIFE SAVING AWARD - Raymond Boales

On 11/20/2023 SCPD Communications received a report of a male in his 60’s that was unresponsive and not breathing inside the Safeway grocery store at 2605 The Alameda. Officer Raymond Boales arrived on scene a short time later. Upon his arrival, Officer Boales retrieved the emergency medical bag and moved to the downed subject, verifying the patient was not breathing and had no pulse. He utilized the appropriate equipment from the medical bag and immediately began performing CPR on the patient. The patient was later transported to the hospital where he was found to have an active pulse and was breathing on his own power. The emergency medical staff stated that the patient suffered a heart attack and without the quick and decisive actions of the first responders, the patient likely would not have survived. Officer Boales’ actions directly resulted in a life being saved, and they are commendable in the highest order.

LIFE SAVING AWARD - Samuel Miceli, Jessica Smith and Erik Bailey

On July 28, 2023, Officers responded to the report of a stabbing incident involving three victims. Upon arrival, Officers Erik Bailey and Jessica Smith located the stabbing victims. Officer Samuel Miceli arrived moments later, and the three worked to assess the injuries. Officers Bailey, Miceli, and Smith correctly determined which of the victims was most seriously wounded. This victim had been stabbed six times in the torso, resulting in serious and life-threatening injuries. Officers Bailey, Miceli, and Smith worked quickly and efficiently to place chest seals on the wounds, while conducting a thorough check to ensure no wounds were overlooked amongst the tremendous amount of blood loss. They then worked to do the same assessment and treatment for the remaining victims. Medical personnel later commended the Officers on their outstanding lifesaving efforts. Without the quick and competent actions of Officers Bailey, Miceli, and Smith, it is likely at least one, if not more, of the victims would not have survived this incident.

LIFE SAVING AWARD - Froylan Aranda and AJ Pianto / POLICE ACHIEVEMENT RIBBON - Patrick Baldassari

On July 7, 2023, Officers were dispatched to Bassett St to investigate the report of a male subject who hung himself in a recreational vehicle. Upon arrival, Officers AJ Pianto, Froylan Aranda, and Patrick Baldassari encountered the male subject’s hysterical girlfriend and young child. They moved to the subject’s location and cut the rope from which he was hanging. After checking the subject’s vitals, it was determined he had no pulse. Officer Pianto directed Officer Aranda in giving chest compressions, while also instructing Officer Baldassari to retrieve necessary medical equipment. Officer Pianto then began to administer breaths using a bag valve mask, while Officer Aranda continued chest compressions. By the time medical personnel arrived on scene, the Officers’ actions resulted in the subject regaining a pulse. The subject ultimately survived, which would have been impossible without the lifesaving actions of Officers Aranda, Pianto, and Baldassari.

Gun Violence Reduction Ribbon

GUN VIOLENCE REDUCTION RIBBON - David Wasserman

On three separate occasions Officer Wasserman made proactive contacts that resulted in a firearm seizure (SCPD Event: 2302110117, 2302060134, 2205010124). This certificate and ribbon are presented in recognition of Officer Wasserman's outstanding efforts to make the streets of Santa Clara safer for its citizens.

GUN VIOLENCE REDUCTION RIBBON - Raymond Boales

On three separate occasions Officer Boales made proactive contacts that resulted in a firearm seizure (SCPD Event: 2203200135, 2204180018, 2206200006). This certificate and ribbon are presented in recognition of Officer Boales’ outstanding efforts to make the streets of Santa Clara safer for its citizens.

distinguished service AWARD

Salvador Naranjo

On 8/25/2023, a stabbing occurred at an In-N-Out restaurant immediately following a 49’ers NFL game at Levi’s Stadium. Officer Naranjo was the first Officer to arrive on scene. He encountered a chaotic environment with a large group of people actively fighting, and multiple stabbing victims bleeding heavily. Officer Naranjo maintained his composure and quickly identified a subject fleeing the scene on foot. Officer Naranjo chased and successfully apprehended the subject, who turned out to be the Suspect in the stabbing. Officer Naranjo then retraced the path of the foot pursuit and located the weapon used in the stabbing. Throughout the incident, Officer Naranjo displayed a calm and cool demeanor, almost singlehandedly solving a complex investigation, and making a turbulent scene safe for medical personnel to treat the victims. Officer Naranjo’s actions were exemplary and reflect great credit upon himself and the Santa Clara Police Department.

AJ Pianto

On October 19, 2023, Officer AJ Pianto responded to a citizen suffering a mental health crisis. The citizen was a frequent caller who often reported false occurrences. Upon arrival, Officer Pianto met the man in front of his residence and discovered two large kitchen knives protruding from the man's chest. The man was coherent, and completely calm and collected despite his severe wounds. Officer Pianto was unfazed and immediately requested necessary personnel and equipment. As other officers arrived, Officer Pianto leaned on his exceptional leadership skills and medical expertise to direct others and treat the man's injuries. The man was ultimately transported to a local hospital where he recovered. Officer Pianto's actions during a highly unusual and complicated situation were exemplary, and he utilized sound judgment in accordance with the high standards of the Santa Clara Police Department.

CITIZEN’S AWARD

CITIZEN’S AWARD – Mr. James Vidunas

SCPD Detectives had been investigating a robbery crew for an extended period of time. This crew was particularly difficult to track due to many factors including a large area geographical area of criminal activity, a pattern of fleeing from police during attempted stops, and frequent switching of cell phones to limit tracking. The success in this case began with the bravery of Mr. James Vidunas, who is a Santa Clara resident and works for the City of Santa Clara. During an obvious takeover robbery Mr. Vidunas jumped into action. He removed a covering off the suspect vehicle’s license plate and took a photo of the plate as armed suspects ran out of the store. Mr. Vidunas gave the license plate info to dispatch, which provided the original leads to this case. Thanks in large part to Mr. Vidunas’ actions, this crew was eventually identified and apprehended.

 Citizen’s Award - Mr. John Fredericks

On September 16, 2023, a concert event took place at Levi’s Stadium. At the conclusion of the event, a 63-year-old woman was walking away from the stadium with her boyfriend. A suspect unknown to the couple began yelling at them. The suspect then threw a bag of trash at them and knocked the Victim to the ground in a completely unprovoked attack. A pedi-cab worker, Mr. John Fredericks, witnessed the assault and sprang into action. He immediately tackled the suspect and kept him on the ground until SCPD officers arrived moments later. The Victim suffered significant injuries as a result of this attack, and the quick apprehension of the suspect was entirely due to Mr. Fredericks’ quick decision making and strong sense of humanity and justice. Mr. Fredericks’ actions were highly commendable, and the Santa Clara Police Department thanks him for his efforts to keep our city safe.