MANCHESTER, NJ — Manchester Township recently recognized two of its police officers, Patrolman Robert Campolei and Patrolman Connor Maliff, with the prestigious Croix De Negotiators Laurel Award. This accolade is awarded to officers who exhibit exceptional composure, negotiation skills, and wit under high-pressure situations, effectively preventing potential life-threatening incidents.
The award ceremony highlighted an incident on August 26, 2023, that showcased the officers’ remarkable abilities. The Manchester Township Police Department responded to a distress call from the Pine Lake Park area, involving a juvenile threatening household members with a knife. Although the juvenile had been disarmed by the time officers arrived and had fled the scene, the situation escalated upon his return. Displaying signs of distress, the juvenile threw an object at the officers, fled again, and was later found with a large knife, threatening his own life.
Ptl. Campolei and Ptl. Maliff’s response to this critical situation was exemplary. They established a connection with the juvenile, employing de-escalation techniques that not only ensured the safety of all involved but also persuaded the young individual to relinquish the knife and accept mental health support. Their actions facilitated a peaceful resolution and the juvenile’s safe transport to a facility for psychiatric evaluation.
The Croix De Negotiators Laurel Award serves as recognition of the officers’ dedication to duty and their ability to maintain calm and control in situations that demand quick thinking and empathy.