Detective David Rode was recognized for his outstanding work in forensics which lead to the arrest of a burglary suspect.  The award reads as follows:

Outstanding Arrest Award

Detective David E. Rode

     On October 19, 2019, at approximately 2:32 am, officers responded to a report from an alarm service regarding multiple alarms at the Crossroads Antique Mall, located at the corner of Governor Road and Cocoa Avenue. Upon arrival, they discovered that the building had been forcibly entered near the entry doors.

     After securing the scene, the Criminal Investigation Section was contacted to further investigate the burglary. An Evidence Technician collected a short-handled sledgehammer found on the floor in front of one of the broken display cases.

     Detective David Rode examined the sledgehammer and, while attempting to lift latent prints, focused on the black duct tape wrapped around the handle. He carefully peeled off the duct tape and processed the adhesive side, revealing latent prints. These prints were photographed and sent to the Pennsylvania State Police Lab for analysis and comparison in the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS).

     AFIS returned a positive identification, leading to the identification of a suspect who was subsequently charged with burglary at the Crossroads Antique Mall. Detective Rode's exceptional attention to detail and skill as a Crime Scene Evidence Technician enabled him to identify and preserve a latent fingerprint, positively linking the suspect to the incident.

     Detective David Rode's remarkable work in this case exemplifies the highest standards of the Derry Township Police Department in the pursuit of justice. His dedication to detail and expertise in evidence processing led to a successful identification and arrest, making our community a safer place. His outstanding efforts are truly deserving of recognition and commendation.