‘Cop of the Month’ honors for officer Ryan

BY TONIA N. CIMINO

Tuesday, October 20, 2009 5:15 AM EDT

Due to the frostier weather, noise complaints were down at the most recent meeting of the 106th Precinct Community Council, though numerous residents still expressed concerns over unruly neighbors.

But before new business could be tended to, officers informed those assembled that a noise complaint on 116th Street had been addressed, with summonses issued and speakers confiscated; and that a situation with parking and hanging out on 124th Street had also been handled.

Two new Assistant District Attorneys were also introduced; each will attend Precinct Council meetings for half a year in order to help expedite and solve residents’ problems.

“Cop of the Month” for September went to police officer Timothy Ryan, who, through good memory – and good police work – apprehended an alleged pickpocket.

“Pickpocketing happens within the command, and they are difficult to police,” said Deputy Inspector Joseph G. Courtesis, Commanding Officer of the 106th.

Courtesis went on to explain how, in August, at the new IHOP on Liberty Avenue, the hostess’ wallet was taken from her pocketbook.

Ryan watched video surveillance, and a few days later, while on patrol, he saw the suspect.

“He [Ryan] took it upon himself to make it his mission to find this guy.”

Arrested in late August, the perpetrator had 20 priors, including narcotics and grand larceny, according to Courtesis.

Attendees were then able to voice their grievances, including towtrucks blocking driveways and bus stops in South Ozone Park.

“I am totally aware [of the situation],” said Courtesis. This year alone we did three operations [with the towing companies.”

Special Operations Lieutenant Joseph Salvato echoed the sentiment. “We have been addressing this situation,” he said.

And with Halloween just around the corner, Precinct Community Council President Frank Dardani asked what the command’s plans included to keep the area safe, with parades planned for Tudor Village and Cross Bay Boulevard.

“We’re going to be stretched pretty thin,” admitted Courtesis. “But we’ll be able to handle it. We’re making sure we have an adequate amount of coverage; the auxiliary is chipping in.”

As for the string of home invasions that have been occurring, Courtesis urged common sense.

“If you feel uncomfortable, call 9-1-1,” he said.

THE COURIER/Photo by Tonia N. Cimino
The 106th Precinct “Cop of the Month” for September went to Officer Timothy Ryan (center), who, through good memory – and good police work – apprehended an alleged pickpocket. He is seen with Precinct Community Council President Frank Dardani (left) and Deputy Inspector Joseph G. Courtesis, Commanding Officer of the 106th.