It was my great honor to present Officer Justin Bates with the East Lansdowne Police Department Lifesaving Award at last night’s Borough Council meeting.

During the early morning hours of August 4, Officer Bates had just completed a 12-hour tour of duty and was driving home in his personal vehicle when he noticed a child in severe emotional distress. Although he was off duty and without body armor, a police radio, or other supporting equipment, Officer Bates immediately recognized that the child’s life was in imminent danger and courageously intervened.

His vigilance, sound judgment, compassion, and decisive actions directly prevented the loss of a young life. Officer Bates’s willingness to place himself in harm’s way reflects the highest traditions of law enforcement and exemplifies what it truly means to remain ever vigilant—both on and off duty.

Making the evening even more meaningful, Officer Bates’s proud parents, Mark and Renee, were in attendance to share in this well-deserved recognition.

Please join us in congratulating Officer Justin Bates and thanking him for his extraordinary courage and commitment to protecting others.

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