Retired Chief David Newlan introduced the ‘Citizen Commendable Action Coin’ wanting to recognize citizens that go above and beyond. The recipient is presented with the coin along with a card that reads:

“Thank You For Your Commendable Action. On behalf of the Cape Coral Police Department, please accept this Challenge Coin in appreciation of your positive actions that make this community GREAT!

The Citizen Commendable Action Challenge Coin is given by an Officer of the Cape Coral Police Department to a civilian that performs an extraordinary act(s) or in the recognition of exemplary behavior.”

Officer Duffy wanted to commend the efforts of Joe Bazan for his dedication to our community.

“While on patrol I observed a silver pickup truck which had broken down, and I stopped to assist. A short time later Mr. Bazan stopped to help as well. Mr. Bazan did not know the driver of the disabled vehicle, Joe Garcia. Mr. Bazan tried to jumpstart the truck from his vehicle; when this did not work, he went to his house, returned in a truck and towed Mr. Garcia’s inoperable vehicle to his house. Mr. Bazan did not ask for or expect any compensation.

I believe Mr. Bazan’s actions in helping a fellow Cape Coral citizen went over and above what is normally to be expected and I issued Mr. Bazan a Cape Coral Police Department Citizen Commendable Action Coin.”

– Officer Jonathan Duffy

Thank you, Officer Duffy, for taking the time to recognize Joe Bazan for his dedication and selfless efforts to help our community.