Middletown honors new firefighters, police officers and first‑responder teams

Middletown Township opened its Aug. 14 Board of Supervisors meeting with a round of ceremonial swearing‑ins and recognitions for first responders. Chairperson Payne led the Pledge of Allegiance and Chief (name not specified) and other department leaders administered oaths to newly appointed firefighters and police officers.

Carol Garner, site supervisor for the township’s Summer Recreation program, presented a donation of $2,310 raised by campers for the Ronald McDonald House and thanked Department of Public Works employee Mike Klenovich for logistical support to the program. Garner said the program emphasized kindness and community service and that “campers helping campers just felt right.”

In separate ceremonies Police Department leadership introduced officers Robert Anselmi and Tyler Stanley and read biographical remarks before administering the oath of office. The township also recognized several officers and partner agencies for their response to a May 30 burglary at Lugerman firearms store. Police leadership said officers’ rapid response, perimeter work and coordination with Falls Township and Trenton police led to the recovery of 21 stolen firearms and multiple felony charges.

Separately, detectives and prosecutors were commended for investigative work that led to convictions in the December 2020 homicide of Christopher Wilson in the township. The board presented individual commendations and squad citations to Middletown detectives and to Bucks County investigators and the county deputy district attorney for their roles in a lengthy investigation and prosecution.

The evening also included years‑of‑service certificates and a retirement recognition for Officer Michael Stum, noting his work in crash reconstruction and in the department’s traffic unit. The board observed a moment to honor retired K9 Nicks and presented a memorial plaque to handler Officer Kevin Eckenrode. The recognitions occupied the early portion of the meeting and concluded before a scheduled break.