Palmetto Police Chief Recognizes Exceptional Officers

PALMETTO -- At Monday's Palmetto City Commission meeting, Police Chief Rick Wells recognized and congratulated Palmetto Police Department officers for their skills and duty well done in their professional handling of the recent February 22 stabbing of Kemishia Pompey at The Hall, a nightclub in Palmetto.

Chief Wells said he was very much proud of both Officer Luis Diaz and Mr. Trevor Cardarelle for their Lifesaving Award, related to the stabbing of Pompey. 

Officer Diaz had just completed a first-aid responder course two weeks before the incident. EMS called Chief Wells soon after Pompey's condition was under control at the hospital, and told him that if it had not been for Diaz and Cardarella's actions, Pompey would not have survived.

Mr Larry Gabbard and spouse; Chief Wells at podium	from left: Cardarelle, Pompey; Chief Wells at podium

Pompey attended the ceremony and was overwhelmed with emotion when thanking Cardarelle, Diaz and Wells. 

Chief Wells also recognized Corporal Michael Kelly, Detective David Burns, Officer Luis Martinez, Officer Zachary Cissell, Officer Rebecca Evans, Officer Uruchima and Officer Richard Wilson for outstanding service under pressure.

Wells then congratulated Mr. Larry Gabbard for outstanding service in being chosen as the Property and Evidence Association of Florida Manager of the Year.

Chief Wells and Deputy Chief Scott Tyler said they were both proud to serve with such a great team.