What were you doing before you came to NASH?
Most of my time prior to NASH was spent as a police officer for O’Hara Township. I retired from there as Chief of Police, after spending time as a patrol officer and sergeant. Upon my retirement from O’Hara, I worked as an extra for Paramount+’s Mayor of Kingstown portraying a police officer. I went up to New Castle for a scene they wanted to shoot on railroad tracks, and we also filmed on Pittsburgh’s North Side.
How long have you been an officer?
My first law enforcement position was as an auxiliary police officer for Penn State University when I was a student there in 1990. I worked several part-time police jobs, including the Borough of Millvale and Indiana Township. I became a full-time officer at O’Hara in 1994.
What qualifications did you need to become a school officer?
First and foremost, you have to complete Act 120 training, which is basic recruit training in Pennsylvania, and maintain that certification with updated training in good standing.
Why did you choose to become a school officer?
After retiring from municipal police work, I felt that I had more to offer the community. I had plenty of experience working with schools in the Fox Chapel School District and with youth in general throughout my career, such as the D.A.R.E. program for nearly a decade.
What type of responsibilities do you have as the new NASH School Resource Officer?
Keeping staff and students safe by understanding and implementing safety and emergency protocols. Being vigilant of building security and the grounds. Resolving conflicts and investigating crimes, to name a few.
What are you looking forward to most this school year?
Building relationships and trust with students and staff, getting involved with activities, and attending events. Getting to know as many students as possible and learning about their interests and their involvement in academics, athletics, and the arts.
What is your favorite food?
Pepperoni pizza, chips, and melted cheese.
What is your favorite pastime?
Spending time with my wife and three sons, attending their hockey games, tending to my fruit trees, and lately, researching Heirloom apple varieties.
Who is your favorite artist or band?
I listen to everything from John Denver to Iron Maiden, and I have seen both of them live!
If you were stranded on an island, what three items would you bring?
Tons of fresh water, Led Zeppelin’s catalog of music, and a charged satellite phone for when I’m ready to go home.
