By Andrew Gorosko

Newtown Police Chief James Viadero was among the recipients of the 2018 Distinguished Chiefs Award presented on Wednesday, September 26, by the Police Commissioners Association of Connecticut (PCAC). The group held its awards banquet at Grassy Hill Country Club in Orange.

PCAC also recognized nine members of the South Central Regional Special Weapons and Tactics Team (SWAT), comprised of police officers from multiple municipal police departments, who were injured during a May 2 incident in North Haven.

Besides Chief Viadero, Chief Ed Lennon of East Haven Police Department and Chief Tim Shaw of Easton Police Department received the Distinguished Chiefs Award.

According to a PCAC statement, Chip Rubenstein, PCAC's first vice president, said, "Lennon, Shaw, and Viadero were selected based on recommendations from PCAC members using input from the chiefs’ officers. The chiefs' professional experience, education, and their contributions to the law enforcement community ... also [were] factored into the decision. Nominees are also vetted by previous honorees."

First Selectman Dan Rosenthal attended the awards ceremony Wednesday evening.

On Thursday, Mr Rosenthal told The Newtown Bee, "It was great, but not surprising, to see the support and appreciation that Jim has, not only from within the Newtown Police Department and our community, but from all over Connecticut. I enjoy working with Jim and there is no question the recognition he received last night was well-deserved."

Commenting on his having received the award, Chief Viadero said September 27 he "was humbled and honored by the award.

"What made the ceremony extremely rewarding was that I was able to share the event with those in attendance, my wife, family, officers from Newtown and Bridgeport who I have had the pleasure of serving with," he said Thursday morning.

The chief added, "As I stated at the ceremony, I know of very few professions where individuals dedicate their careers [to] running toward danger, and doing so selflessly. Working with, and leading such professionals is the true honor."

Attorney Joel Faxon, who is chairman of Newtown Police Commission, presented the award to Chief Viadero at the ceremonies.

Chief Shaw received his award from Chief Jonathan Fontneau of Stamford Police Department. Chief Lennon's award was presented by East Haven Mayor Joe Maturo.