Officer John Simonian April 17, 1987 - May 5, 2019 *Appointed April 17, 1987, housing authority police. *1988, Buffalo Police Department at Filmore Station. *1991 at Genesee Station. *1997 Broadway Station. *2000 C district. *transferred to traffic on January 1, 2015 *Retired May 5, 2019. Officer John Simonian served the Queen City for over 30 years working primarily in East Buffalo. During his career, he has been commended numerous times for his bravery and is always there to assist his fellow officers. As a new officer, I was able to witness the greatness of the officer he was. He was always there to help and offer advice, which was a great experience. Officer Simonian gained national fame during the filming of Cops 8 episode 23 back in 1995. He was well known for his coolness under pressure no matter how terrible a situation can be. Notably, his son John Simonian is following in his footsteps, currently serving in C district just like his father. Since 1987, John Simonian is still in the force. Officer Simonian retired on May 5, 2019. Here's to you 🥃 Officer John Simonian. You embody what an officer should be. Enjoy your retirement. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer #Buffalo #buffalony #buffalonews #CourierExpress
114 years ago, Chief Michael Regan of Buffalo Police attended the International Association of Chiefs of Police and was voted as the first vice president. This funny photo compares the height difference between the Jacksonville Police Department's Chief Vinzant and Chief Regan. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer #Buffalo #buffalony #buffalonews #CourierExpress
Lieutenant Aaron Salter Jr. *Appointed March 1989. *1992 at Kensington Station. *1995 assigned central district *1996 assigned B District. *transferred to Traffic on April 3, 2013 *2014 in Traffic *Retired September 9, 2018 Today we honor the service of Lieutenant Aaron Salter Jr, who tragically gave his life to protect the patrons of Tops supermarket on May 14, 2022. For more than three decades, he worked as a patrol officer in East Buffalo. He worked in community policing, bike patrol, and the mayor's detail before retiring on September 3, 2018, as an officer in the traffic department. I encountered him a few times while he was working security at the Tops supermarket, picking up shoplifters and troublemakers at that location. He is a person who is easy to get along with, respected, well-known, and loved deeply. Here's to you, Lieutenant Aaron Salter Jr. You faithfully kept watch over the city for over 30 years and continued to do so after you retired. You will always be remembered. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer #Buffalo #buffalony #buffalonews #CourierExpress
Police Commissioner James B. Cunningham March 23, 1942 - January 21, 1984 *Appointed March 23, 1942, assigned to Franklin Station. *Served the country during World War II as military police. Served from April 16, 1942, to January 1947. He attained the rank of Major *Promoted to Lieutenant on November 3, 1953. Assigned to Filmore Station. *Aide to Commissioner Finney in 1962 *transferred to Louisiana Station on August 31, 1966 *Transferred to Michigan Station September 2, 1967. *Erie Club President 1968 *1969 PBA president. Its 1st president *was promoted to Captain on February 11, 1969. Assigned to Relief Captain. *assigned to Niagara Station on March 30, 1973. *Promoted to Commissioner on December 28, 1977 *1979, issued a general order that no longer officers will be identified as patrolmen and police women but will now be police officers. Changed the uniform to be the same for both male and female officers. *1980, implemented a new work schedule. *passed away suddenly on January 21, 1984. Commissioner James Cunningham served this city for 36 years, taking time away to serve in the U.S. Army as a military police officer during WWII. For 11 years, he worked as a patrol officer, primarily at Franklin Station. After being promoted in 1953, he served as a lieutenant at Filmore Station for 9 years. In 1969, he was the PBA's first president and played a significant role in securing good contracts for the personnel. In 1969, he was promoted to Captain and spent many years as a Commander at Niagara Station, including from 1973 until his promotion to Commissioner in 1977. He played for the police bowling team. Newspapers mentioned how good he was, but most importantly, he enjoyed the camaraderie. He was the Person of the Year for the city in 1981. He enjoyed a high degree of respect from most, was attentive to those with complaints, and resolved problems swiftly. Here's to you 🥃, Commissioner Cunningham, for 36 years of service to the Queen City. You will always be remembered. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter
Baltimore Police Department Commissioner Bishop L. Robinson January 10, 1952 - February 19, 1987 *Appointed January 10, 1952 Assigned to narcotics squad. *Detective patrolmen in 1963. *Sergeant in 1965. * became an instructor at the academy on February 2, 1967. The first African American to do so. *Lieutenant in 1970, continued in Training Academy *Promoted to Captain September 4, 1971. Assigned to command the eastern district. *Promoted to Major, assigned to Central Records Division on March 21, 1973. *Promoted to Lieutenant Colonel on May 25, 1974. Assigned as Chief of Patrol. *Promoted Colonel in 1975 *promoted to Deputy Commissioner on January 4, 1978. Assigned to services division. *Promoted to Commissioner on June 24, 1984 * Retired from Baltimore Police in 1987, and became the state of Maryland Secretary of Public and Correctional Services. Serving two terms. *Retired from public service in 2003, serving as the Juvenile Secretary. *Robinson died on January 6, 2014, at the age of 86 Commissioner Bishop Robinson began his career working with the Narcotics Squad in the streets. For almost 15 years, he served in this squad, rising to the rank of Sergeant. His expertise in narcotics work led him to the training academy in 1967, where he passed on that knowledge to officers. His organizational skills and true leadership qualities made him rise quickly. The bishop was a genuine leader and trailblazer of his time. He set out a trail for others to follow, and that's something he accomplished. Here's to you, Commissioner Bishop Robinson. You served the city of Baltimore and the state of Maryland with unwavering devotion. Commissioner Robinson passed January 6, 2014, at the age of 86. Rest in peace. You will forever be remembered. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer #Buffalo #buffalony #buffalonews #CourierExpress #baltimorepolicedepartment
On this day May 6, 1891... The Broadway area was terrorized by 10-year-old boy Freddie Wood who was a neighborhood menace from the late 1880s to early 1890s. According to this article, he was charged with taking a highly valued chicken from Herman Kreinheider at 120 Young Street and subsequently selling it to Mrs. Mune on Peck Street for 30 cents. The arrest was made by Officer Henry Oefner from Broadway Station precinct 11. This kid was nothing but trouble. He was constantly running away, threatened to hack his adopted mother and sister to death, and committed numerous larcenies. He was sent to Father Baker's reformatory and escaped from that place twice. Following his arrest, he was placed at the state industrial school in Rochester, NY. The whereabouts of him after his arrest are unknown. Henry Oefner served as an officer from 1870 until July 6, 1895; he then retired for more than 20 years before passing away unexpectedly during breakfast in 1915. The painting is Boy in the Sailor Suit/portrait of Axel Claesson by Jenny Nyström (1889)... definitely not Freddie Wood #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer #Buffalo #buffalony #buffalonews #CourierExpress #Jenny Nyström
From Buffalo, NY, I'm off on vacation. These news clippings are from Buffalo, New York, from the 1890s to the 1920s. The entire city was aware of a department member's vacation. That being said, I will be on vacation sailing around the Caribbean for the next couple of days. I'll be back with new content. I appreciate everyone and please stay safe. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer #Buffalo #buffalony #buffalonews #CourierExpress
Detective Sargeant Charles A Hulett *Appointed November 1, 1956. Assigned to Michigan Station *January 13, 1965 Promoted to Detective, assigned to B District. *February 1974 promoted to Detective Sergeant. Detective Sargeant Charles A Hulett served the city for 18 years. Michigan Station was where he worked while on patrol. While patrolling, he would come across crimes in progress and be in the midst of the action. He jumped straight into a bar fight between 5 people on April 8, 1961. Four were stopped by him and his partner, and the fifth one took a knife and cut his partner's hand, causing a laceration. The perpetrator was quickly apprehended. He was given an accommodation due to this. While on patrol, he assisted with the birth of a girl on a kitchen floor. He was broadcasting on the air and said, 'Tell the ambulance to keep hurrying because the baby is already here'. While off duty, he caught a person breaking into a truck and announced himself as a police officer. The suspect fled but was eventually captured. Detective Sargeant Hulett was prepared to meet the challenge, regardless of the situation. Regrettably, he suffered a heart attack while working and passed away shortly afterward on March 7, 1974. Here's to you 🥃, Detective Sargeant Charles A. Hulett for your service to the Queen City. Your service will never be forgotten. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer #Buffalo #buffalony #buffalonews #CourierExpress
Buffalo Police Station No.5 *1871 located on Forest Ave a little east of Niagara Street. A wooden two-story building. *February 19, 1874, to April 27, 1893, at 1487 Niagara Street. On April 27, 1893, it was burned down. *1893-1895, quartered in Niagara Hall, over in Niagara Bank near Forest Ave. *1895 to 1980 West Delavan Station at 291 West Delavan. *1981 to 1997 West Ferry Station @ 323 West Ferry Street. Building erected in 1930. Now demolished. *1997 Combine with Hertal and Colvin Stations to form Northwest District, now known as D District at 669 Hertel Ave. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer #buffalo #buffalony
On April 27, 1930, the NYPD's finest marched up 5th Avenue, which was followed by an awards ceremony. This ceremony honored many for their bravery and those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for the city. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer
On April 26, 1920, while directing traffic on East Utica Street, two officers witnessed a car approaching them at a high speed and refused to stop. The officers commandeered a vehicle and the chase was on...Good read. I can't imagine an officer commandeering a vehicle to chase a car in today's world, especially in this anti-police climate. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer
Buffalo Police Station No.4 *1859 "The house on the northerly side of Sycamore street, near Ash Street, now occupied as a police station, is hereby designated police station No. 4"--Buffalo Courier Express Jan 5, 1859. Used until 1873 *1873, April 30. The old German Methodist Church was refurbished to become the new police station No. 4 at Sycamore and Ash Street. It was used until 1890. * 1890, Temporary 4th precinct located in rooms formerly occupied by the Erie County Athletic Club near the corner of Genesee and Ash Street used until 1892. *1892, May 1: A new Sycamore Station was built on Sycamore Street at Ash Street, replacing the old church. It was used until 1955. In 1957, the building was demolished. *1955 March 23, the new Michigan Police Station was opened, replacing the old No.4 Sycamore Station. The stationhouse remained in service until January 23, 1995, when Niagara, Theater, and Michigan Precinct merged to create the Central District. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer
Chief Kenneth T. Jones Highland Beach Police Department, Fl July 1, 1972 - May 1 3, 1984 *police department established in 1972 with a five-man police force *1984, May 3 Retired. *Passed away October 23, 2013 Chief Kenneth T. Jones, a WWII veteran, had served as a police inspector for 23 years in the NYPD (1942-1965) and served as Chief of the Lantana Police Department (1967-1971) before becoming Highland Beach's first police chief in 1972. He chose and hired the 5 officers who would be responsible for patrolling the town that doubled in size in the '60s and '70s. The town was previously protected by Delray Beach Security. He was tasked with dealing with the increase in burglaries, traffic accidents, drug problems, and occasional bales of marijuana that washed up on the shores. On May 3, 1984, Chief Jones retired from law enforcement and took time to enjoy sailing and life with his family. After a long retirement, he passed away on October 23, 2013. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer
Officer Jose A. Colon July 31, 1997 - July 24, 2009 *1998, January 1, assigned to E District. *1998, July 7, transferred to A district. *1998, December 24, transferred to Precinct 12 * 2000, September 14, assigned to C district. *2007, May 11, transferred to Mobile Response Unit. *2009, July 24 unit expired, transferred to C District. Officer Colon served the city for 12 years, never losing the energy he had from the start of his career. He was well-known for his numerous drug and gun arrests and was recognized for his accomplishments on numerous occasions. I first heard about him when I came to C district when I saw his funeral card in the kitchen of the station house. Stories were told to me about his bravery, his easygoing nature, and his ability to lighten the mood on a dark day. Tragically, a drunk driver killed him on his way home from work on July 24, 2009, at the age of 39 years old. Here's to you🥃, Officer Colon. Though you are gone, you are not forgotten. To this day, your name and unforgettable character are still talked about. Thank you for your service. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer
Buffalo Police Station No.3 *(1878 - 1928) Pearl St. Station – No. 3 at 425 Pearl St. *(1928 - 1953) Washington St. Station #3 at 719 Washington Street demolished in 1953 *(1953 - 1978) At Police Headquarters on the 1st floor known as Franklin Station No.3, end of Station No. 1. At HQ, merged with No. 3. *(1978 -1993) Main Street Substation No.3 at 672 Main St. Traffic Remained at the location. Precinct 3 has undergone many transformations throughout the city's history. The first building was by far the one I liked the most, it's a beautiful building. I'm going to leave you with a quote from the Buffalo News from February 4, 1928, in memory of its first building that was vacated for the Washington Street station. "memories of those husky, hardy fellows, the cops of old, who fought gangsters, thieves, and murderers, laughed at hair-raising perils and gave to their Jobs and their friends an un- swerving loyalty." #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer
Detective Sargeant Wilfred J Sullivan March 19, 1919 - August 12, 1944 *1919, March 19 transferred from the fire department to Buffalo Police. *1922 in mounted patrol at Genesee Station 9 *1923, October 23 transferred to Babcock Station 12 *1924, June 24 transferred to the new South Park Station. *1934 Promoted to Acting Detective *1938 Promoted to Detective *1939 Promoted to Detective Sargeant. *1942, Assigned to Homicide and Arson Squads * 1944, August 12 passed away after a short illness. He was 57 years old. Detective Sargeant Wilfred Sullivan served the Queen City for 25 years, working until he died in 1944. He won the Connors Award for heroism on December 4, 1925, for his actions while investigating suspicious activity of two men around a restaurant on Elk Street. One man was appended while the other ran and fired at him. He fired back and hit the suspect who had escaped. He was later captured in Cheektowaga. During his 15 years as a patrolman, he faced numerous situations that required him to think quickly on his feet and handle every incident with efficiency. He became a popular figure in the media of the day due to the many encounters he had while walking his beat. His reputation as a detective was built upon his reputation as a hardworking investigator who would put in long hours on cases. A year after being promoted to detective, he was promoted to Detective Sergeant and assigned to Homicide and Arson in 1942. Regrettably, he died at the age of 57 after suffering from illness for four days. Here's to you 🍻, Detective Sargeant Wilfred J. Sullivan. You kept a faithful watch over the city for 25 years and paid the ultimate price. Your service will never be forgotten. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer
Chief John F. Mersman Cheektowaga, NY Police Department 1928- September 30, 1964 *1928 Lieutenant of night squad. *1932 January, reduced back to Patrolman *1934, back to Lieutenant *1948, February 3, promoted to Captain. *1952, October 25 promoted to Acting Chief *1953, May 19 promoted to permanent Chief. *1964, September 30 Retired. For 36 years, Chief John Mersman was a member of the Cheektowaga, NY police department. His remarkable career included many memorable calls of service. As a captain, he and three other officers saved a woman's life in 1950. In a 1934 car accident scene, he worked tirelessly, helping three injured individuals escape from a wrecked car that resulted in one fatality. On the job, he saw a lot of sadness, scenes that the average person could not handle emotionally. As a leader, he provided emergency first aid kits that helped provide first aid in multiple emergencies, resulting in the saving of many lives. Chief Mersman played a crucial role in convincing the State Traffic Commission in the town to install traffic signals to reduce accidents that occur daily. Thank you for your service, Chief. Your contribution to the department will never be forgotten. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer
Station No.2 Seneca St. Station/South Division St. Station. 1871-1954. *Old station #2, Seneca Street Station. Built in 1865 at 405 Seneca Street, it was sold to a railroad company in 1914. *Station #2 relocated to 500 South Division Street. On November 29, 1915, South Division Street Station opened its doors. *On August 14, 1954, Commissioner DeCillis ordered that it be abandoned. Personnel transferred to various districts. *The South Division Street station house was demolished in 1960. Precinct 2 was absorbed by Sycamore, Louisiana, and Filmore stations. Imagine a city that is bustling and growing around you in 1880. Imagine being in front of 405 Seneca St, seeing people come and go, People walking by. Wagons pulled by horses going about their business. It must have been something to behold. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer
Theodore Moustakas Redwood City Police December 31, 1942 - February 2, 1969 *Appointed December 31, 1942 *December 13, 1949, promoted to sergeant. *Resigned from the department in November 1950 *Confidential Deputy December 1951, resigned August 13, 1951 *July 7, 1952 Returns to Redwood City as Sargeant. * January 1, 1956, promoted to Captain and Deputy Chief *Retired February 1, 1969 Assistant Chief Theodore Moustakas has served Redwood City for over 27 years, climbing the ranks to become 2nd in command of the department. Assistant Chief Moustakas was known for his keen investigative skills and continued to learn new techniques by attending additional training at the FBI academy. As an assistant chief, he was known to assist his fellow officers from time to time during calls and was always the one to put himself in dangerous situations for the safety of his officers and the citizens he served. He retired on February 1, 1969, and passed away on June 5, 2005, at the ripe young age of 87. Here's to you Assistant Chief Theodore Moustakas. Thank you for your service. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer
Buffalo Police Headquarters, Station No. 1 The old No. 1 station police headquarters has had many homes throughout its long history. In the 1870s and 1880s, the department's first residence was an old hotel. In 1884, the first official building was constructed on Franklin Terrace near Erie Street. Until 1936, this was where police headquarters were located. This building was able to withstand fires that occurred in 1907 and 1919. The aftermath of the first fire, which badly damaged the 4th floor, was taken down to 3 after renovations. In 1937, the building was torn down. In February 1936, the new police headquarters opened its doors at 74 Franklin Street. Many are familiar with this building. This building served as the police headquarters until 2017. The current building, which is an old courthouse located on 68 Court Street, is shared between the police and fire. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement
In 1960, the Buffalo Police K-9 unit was established. After witnessing the effectiveness of K9 in other departments across the nation, it became a no-brainer for the city to have its own. Included here are photos and articles that document the unit's formation and first year. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer
*Commissioner Frank N. Felicetta was born on May 23, 1906 in Buffalo. *Appointed as a patrolman on December 3, 1929. He worked in radio scout patrol when he was a patrolman. *After being promoted to detective in 1935, served in the Special Investigations Squad. *Promoted to Detective Sergeant in 1938. *Promoted to temporary Lieutenant in November 1943. * Promoted permanent Lieutenant July in 1944 station to Franklin Station. *Promoted Captain in 1950, during a dinner honoring Captain Felicetta, Commissioner Noeppel stated, 'He has the patience of a saint and the shrewdness of a diplomat.' *Appointed Commissioner in 1958. *Retired on December 31, 1961. *Reappointed as commissioner in 1966, served until 1973. The commissioner served the city for close to 40 years, starting as a patrolman and making it to the top rank of the department. He was known as a keen investigator who got things solved quickly, and he would put himself in harm's way multiple times. He was famous for aiding people with his numerous charitable endeavors to enhance the lives of those he served. An organization was named in his honor. The Felicetta Fellows Inc., which is now known as the 100 Club, was created to assist the families of police officers who die in the line of duty. When Commissioner Felicetta retired in 1961 he stated the following which is true for all who retire. "Retirement cannot remove the police blood from my veins, and in my heart I shall always be a Buffalo police officer. Be assured.....that I will watch with fond interest your future progress and accomplishments. " Commissioner Frank N. Felicetta passed away on February 8, 1984. Thank you for your service. #buffalopolicethenandnow
Policemen's Day was celebrated at "the front" now known as Front Park on this day June 03, 1906. 600 officers paraded in front of a reviewing stand where Mayor Adam and Superintendent Regan reviewed the passing officers. This was a yearly tradition that started in 1873 and lasted until 1933. After 1933, there is no mention of it and I have no idea why it stopped. I'll keep digging. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer
Look at this gem of a departmental photo from August 29, 1920. It's amazing to see how the department has evolved into a modern police force. Police patrol vehicles, motorcycle squads, policewomen, and municipal cavalry are all part of the police force. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer
*Henry W. Kuhn appointed patrolmen on January 1, 1908, assigned to Sycamore and Ash Station *back on February 16, 1912, around 2 am at 381 Broadway, patrolman Kuhn spotted two burglars trying to break into a saloon. He ran towards the two, they saw Kuhn and started running away. When Officer Kuhn yelled for them to halt, one of the males took out a revolver and shot all rounds toward Officer Kuhn. Luckily, he wasn't struck. After running over a dozen blocks, Officer Kuhn held the pair at gunpoint and arrested both males. *Promoted to Detective in 1915 *Detective Sergeant 7 months later * made 3500 arrests throughout career *Retired July 9, 1932 *died September 23, 1945, I attached News articles of this extraordinary person who was respected by all. He was a personality of his day, everyone loved him. Some say he was Buffalo's Sherlock Holmes. Love the one about his pigeons being stolen. Detective Sergeant Kuhn here's to you🥃. Thank you for your service! #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer
I would like to pay respects to Dennis Adams, who peacefully passed away on February 9, 2024, at the age of 75. Adams began his law enforcement career back in 1973 and served for over twenty years. He spent most of his career in the Burglary Task Force, where he made numerous arrests. Officer Adams was also a novelist, with two books to his name. He was a well-known and respected figure during his time in the department, well-liked by many. Attached are some photos from his service to the city, Rest in peace, and thank you for service #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer
George Sasnett was appointed as a patrolman on March 15, 1918, making him one of the first African Americans in the Buffalo police department. For 19 years, he was assigned to the Sycamore station and became known throughout the community for his boxing and his ability to train others. Newspaper articles from his time in the force showcase his bravery, his willingness to put himself in harm's way for the protection of others, and his unwavering dedication to making his world a better place. Unfortunately, he passed away on February 9, 1937, due to pneumonia. Nevertheless, his service and contributions to his community will always be remembered. Attached are some news articles from his time in the force that highlight his brave work and commitment to making a difference. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer
In 1937, Commissioner James W. Higgins made an important decision to equip the department's squad cars with two-way radio transmission. This allowed officers on patrol to communicate in real-time with the central dispatch station. Although the transmitters had a limited range of only five miles, they were distributed throughout the city to ensure comprehensive coverage. When a call came in, nearby cars would respond promptly, which helped the department operate more efficiently and respond quickly to emergency situations. Commissioner Higgins' decision to install the radios was a significant step in the department's history and it greatly improved public safety. This article is from Courier Express, dated July 25, 1937. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer
As Commissioner, Roche created history. He created the first radio scout car division, comprising 125 cars patrolling night and day, which started before NYPD and was the envy of police departments around the country. He also established a training school that agencies in western New York used to teach modern police methods. Roche was not just a commissioner but also a mentor. He created a Juvenile crime prevention league for boys 12 and over, believing that education was a major weapon against crime. Each member was given a miniature badge as a symbol of respect for the law, and the league did youth sports activities, community activities, and a day with the Commissioner. Roche lived a long and illustrious life, and his contribution to policing will always be remembered. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer
Did you know that Austin J. Roche was one of the greatest commissioners in the history of Buffalo Police? His exceptional career began on June 20, 1906, when he started as a patrolman. Within six months of his service, he was involved in a shootout with a burglar trying to break into a house on Clinton St. Roche fired once, hitting the burglar through the hip, and was decorated with honors for his brave actions. Chief Regan at that time stated that he would have the greatest police department in the world if he had 700 policemen like Roche, and predicted a great future for him. Roche's journey only went up from there. He was promoted to Detective on May 1, 1907, and then Detective Sergeant in February 1918. He started the first police training school in Buffalo on March 18, 1918, which lasted until 1922 when Mayor Buck's term expired. Roche was promoted to lieutenant in 1919 and published a textbook "Care and Use of Firearms by Policemen" in July 1921, which was widely used in Buffalo and other police agencies. Roche was not just an exceptional detective but also a great marksman. He handpicked a pistol team to compete nationally and captured the national police pistol shot championship in 1921. In May 1921, he was detailed to modernize the Lockport police department, and during his leave of absence, he modernized the Dunkirk police department, which wanted him as the head of that department. However, he gracefully declined. Roche was not just a crime fighter but a leader who believed in a better future. He fought an international narcotics ring that was headquartered in Buffalo, formed a squad to combat it, and led a series of raids on January 28, 1923, resulting in the arrest of his public enemy no. 1 Joseph DiCarlo and Harry "mayor of Michigan Ave" Chiin. This gained him national attention as an efficient and incorruptible crime fighter. This squad disbanded on June 1st, 1923, with 351 arrests, $75,000 narcotics seized, and a 94% conviction rate... see post 2 for continuation #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcem
Kathryn B. Gunn was one of the two first appointed special policewomen on May 12th, 1916. She had a remarkable career as a policewoman, excelling in missing person cases and going undercover numerous times. On July 30th, 1924, she was appointed Chief Policewoman by Chief Zimmerman but was demoted a few months later. She took the civil service exam for the position and scored 97, which led to her being reinstated as the permanent Chief Policewoman. Unfortunately, she fell ill and passed away due to heart disease on April 17th, 1926. I have attached a photo of her and some articles from her service. Let's pay tribute to this remarkable trailblazer who paved the way for female officers to join the ranks. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer
Patrolman Charles Schaeffer had his man regarding clothing that a salonkeeper reported stolen by Frank Koczuch on September 4th, 1911. As Patrolmen Schaeffer approaches the police call box at Weaver @ Dingens, the friend of the defendant, John Maruszewski, approaches him, demanding the release of Koczuch. Schaeffer was not giving in. Maruszewski pulled out a revolver and shot at Schaeffer, striking him one time. Schaeffer grabbed his prisoner and used him as a shield who was shot 3 times, killing him instantly. Both men fell to the ground. Maruszewski enraged went up to Patrolmen Schaeffer and shot into the officer Schaeffer before fleeing. Patrolmen Schaeffer had the will to pull out his service weapon and shoot at Maruszewski... unfortunately, he missed his mark due to injuries. Wounded,Patrolmen Schaeffer dragged himself to the callbox and called for help. He gave the description of the shooter, which helped with the apprehension of Maruszewski 12 hours later. Schaeffer died the following day... leaving behind his wife and 9 children. Maruszewski was found guilty and executed via electric chair. The department came together, created a fund, and purchased a house at 93 Watson for the family and kids. $210 was left over from the proceeds. Next time you happen to drive by Dingens @ Weaver. Stop and pay respects to Charles Schaeffer. He held the line and paid the ultimate price. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer
Peter C. Doyle (07/01/1842-07/12/1901), the last Superintendent of Niagara Frontier Police and the first Buffalo City Police Superintendent served from May 01, 1871 to May 01, 1872. At its inception, BPD had 3 Commissioners, 1 Superintendent, 1 Chief Clerk, 2 Assistant Clerks, 1 Surgeon, 6 Captains, 11 Sergeants, 12 Doormen, 16 Detectives, and 125 Patrolmen serving in 6 precincts, NO. 1 Pearl St @ Terrance, NO.2 Seneca St @ Louisiana St. NO. 3 Mohawk St @ Genesee St, NO.4 Sycamore St @ Ash St, NO. 5 Forest Ave @ Niagara St and NO. 6 Main St @ Cold Spring. #buffalopolicethenandnow #policehistory #blueline #police #lawenforcement #thinblueline #cops #backtheblue #firstresponders #leo #lawman #bluelivesmatter #policeofficer #lawenforcementofficer #officer