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 explaining the following:

“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.”

School Resource Officer, Joseph Zalenski, nominated Krista Moscicki and Jenn Pietronigro for the commendable Action Coin due to their quick actions at the bus ramp at Caloosa Elementary School. On August 22, 2019 while performing bus ramp duty for Pre-K and ESE students, a car drove onto the bus ramp bypassing a marked patrol car and drove directly at buses discharging students. Staff members quickly moved to secure students while Krista Moscicki and Jenn Pietronigro quickly moved in the direction of the danger and waved off the approaching car, stopping the driver from further approach to the vulnerable students and staff. Their actions confronting an intruding vehicle greatly contributed to the safe resolution of the incident and safe discharge of all students.

In picture shown: (Left to Right) Officer Joseph Zalenski, Teacher Jennifer Pietronigro, Paraprofessional Krista Moscicki, Principal Ashley LaMar.