New Bedford Police Department Announces First Recipients of New Award for Excellence in De-Escalation
NEW BEDFORD – Several New Bedford police officers were recognized Monday morning for their exceptional ability to de-escalate high-intensity situations through communication, empathy, and professionalism. The awards were presented during a ceremony at the New Bedford Whaling Museum, attended by friends, family, and community leaders, who also viewed footage of the events that led to the commendations, thanks to the department’s recently implemented body-worn camera program.
This newly established award honors officers who demonstrate exceptional skill in using de-escalation tactics to resolve potentially dangerous situations peacefully. It underscores the department’s commitment to fostering trust, safety, and mutual respect between law enforcement and the community.
The NBPD is proud to announce the first recipients of this award.
Officer Michael Dane was honored for his response to an emotionally disturbed individual with a long history of mental health struggles. Officers were dispatched after the individual caused a disturbance and told bystanders to “shoot him.” Ofc. Dane engaged the man in a calm and extended conversation, ultimately persuading him to seek voluntary treatment — without resorting to force.
The award is symbolized by a specially designed challenge coin bearing the acronym I.C.A.T., which stands for Integrating Communications, Assessment, and Tactics. I.C.A.T. is a nationally recognized framework that equips officers with tools to safely manage challenging encounters and minimize the use of force. The entire department has been trained in this system and currently includes five certified trainers.
Officer Patrick Kustka received the award for his response to a crisis involving a frantic young man who ran screaming at officers, demanding their firearms. Rather than escalating, Ofc. Kustka slowed the situation down, held the young man’s hand, and developed a compassionate rapport. “Thank you,” the young man later said as he voluntarily entered St. Luke’s emergency room. “It’s good to have someone there to help you.”
De-escalation is a cornerstone of modern policing, emphasizing nonviolent intervention, conflict resolution, and the preservation of life. By prioritizing communication and empathy, officers reduce the need for force and strengthen public trust.
Sergeant Jonathan Lagao, Officer Emily Pacheco, and Officer Brandon Duarte exemplified this philosophy during an incident at a South End business. After spotting a suspect with active warrants, the man fled and barricaded himself in a public restroom, claiming to have a gun and threatening to shoot either the officers or himself. In the past, such a situation may have led to forced entry and potential violence. Instead, the officers secured the scene, reviewed surveillance footage to assess the threat, and maintained continual communication. Ultimately, the man surrendered peacefully.
“De-escalation is not just a tactic; it’s a philosophy that shapes how we engage with the public,” said Acting Chief Derek Belong. “This award highlights that philosophy. The officers that were honored demonstrated the true meaning of the I.C.A.T model, and we are extremely proud of their work.”
Several other officers were recognized for their response to emotionally charged incidents involving individuals who had seriously self-harmed. Officer Lorenzo Gonzalez, Officer Noah Brum, and Detective Terrel Parent received the award for their handling of a manic individual who had severely lacerated their own throat. In another incident, Officer Tyler White and Officer Jenny Roman located a suicidal man hiding in a local cemetery who had slashed both wrists down to the bone. The officers rendered emergency aid and ensured he received the help he needed.
“Situations involving suicidal individuals are among the most dangerous for officers,” said Assistant Deputy Chief Scott Carola, who also emceed the event. “A person in crisis may attempt to provoke a deadly response, using the responding officer as the instrument of suicide. In those moments, tact, patience, and compassion are essential.”
This new de-escalation award stands as both a symbol of departmental pride and a reminder of our shared mission: to protect and serve with humanity, professionalism, and a commitment to preserving life.
In addition to the above awards, Officer Lorenzo Gonzalez and Officer Brian Rei were honored for their emergency medical treatment of a recent gunshot victim. Sergeant Jordan Ferreira was recognized for leading the investigation that resulted in the capture of the suspects involved in the July 2023 shooting of Detective Lavar Gilbert.
For a full list of award recipients and department promotions, please view the event program here.