BUNNELL, FL – In a powerful and inspiring evening at this week’s Bunnell City Commission meeting, the Bunnell Police Department honored the courage, dedication, and service of its members and partners during its annual Police Awards Ceremony—held in recognition of National Police Week.

The evening began with a moving Proclamation by Mayor Catherine Robinson, honoring the sacrifice of over 26,000 law enforcement officers across the nation who lost their lives in the line of duty—among them, Bunnell’s own Sergeant Dominic Guida, who died in the line of duty in 2021. The proclamation emphasized the City’s ongoing support for those who continue to wear the badge, serving as the “thin blue line” between good and evil, order and chaos.

Following the proclamation, the focus turned to recognizing outstanding achievements within the department.

Unit Commendation Awarded to Outstanding Team of Officers

The Unit Commendation was presented to Lieutenant Shane Groth, Sergeant Adrian Zapata, Detective Jeff Traylor, and Officers Richie Coury, Michael Fansler, Alan Eaby, Brian Houser, and Damon Kreider—a team whose extraordinary commitment to duty and community resulted in remarkable performance throughout the past year.

In 2024, this group demonstrated unwavering dedication—covering additional shifts, responding during Hurricane Milton, and maintaining a strong presence through nights, weekends, and holidays. Their collective efforts led to nearly 4,000 traffic stops, 157 arrests, and close to 1,200 police reports, while also launching a new “Walk & Talk” program that deepened connections between officers and residents. Most notably, their combined investigative efforts resulted in an impressive 63% clearance rate for reported crimes—well above national averages.

This commendation recognizes their courage, cohesion, and community-first approach in delivering real results while embodying the highest ideals of the department’s mission.

Chief’s Commendation Presented to An Exemplary Leader

The Chief’s Commendation was awarded to an individual whose service went far beyond expectations:

Former City Commissioner Tonya Gordon received the Chief’s Commendation for her ongoing support of the department—both during her time in office and long after. Her advocacy, heartfelt encouragement, and even homemade meals during holidays and hurricanes reminded officers their service does not go unseen or unappreciated.

Community Service Awards Recognize Unsung Heroes

The Community Service Award was presented to three outstanding members of the Bunnell Police Department whose contributions in 2024 went above and beyond their primary duties. This award recognizes individuals who exemplify servant leadership and actively engage with the community in ways promoting public safety, enhancing agency operations, and strengthening trust with those we serve.

Each recipient demonstrated exceptional initiative, professionalism, and care in their efforts to support both the department’s mission and the people of Bunnell.

Administrative Assistant Elisa Terranova: Recognized for her extraordinary adaptability, positive spirit, and contributions which extend far beyond her title. Elisa played a key role in supporting the department during a time of significant organizational transition, and she quickly adapted to the demands of a civilian role within a law enforcement setting. In 2024, she was instrumental in planning and executing Bunnell’s first-ever Italian Festival, which welcomed over 8,000 attendees. Her coordination and public-facing engagement were vital to the event’s success. She also proudly represented the department at the Autism Awareness Festival in Palm Coast and National Night Out, where she connected with families and community members with warmth and professionalism. Internally, Elisa supports essential functions such as recordkeeping and front office operations, ensuring the department maintains a high standard of service and professionalism. Her consistent willingness to assist, engage, and adapt makes her an invaluable member of the Bunnell Police Department and a deserving recipient of the Community Service Award.

Public Safety Officer Rommel Scalf: Recognized for his wide-reaching impact on both internal operations and community outreach. In addition to his primary duties as the department’s Evidence Manager, Quartermaster, Grant Coordinator, and Records back-up, PSO Scalf consistently stepped into community-facing roles reflecting his commitment to public safety and servant leadership. He provided near-daily support at the school crossing on East Moody Boulevard, ensuring the safety of children and families. Rommel also shared his expertise through presentations to churches and civic groups, offering valuable guidance on identity theft, scams targeting the elderly, church security, and personal safety. As a certified CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) practitioner, he actively reviewed development plans for the City of Bunnell, offering crime-prevention recommendations that will benefit future residents and businesses. Additionally, he supported city functions by providing a visible, professional presence at commission meetings and public events, building trust between law enforcement and the community. His ability to balance administrative excellence with public engagement made him a standout recipient of the Community Service Award.

Public Safety Officer Gerard “Jay” Lampiasi: Honored for his exceptional work in records management and public engagement. As the department’s Records Manager, Jay handled more than 500 public records requests in 2024, many of which required detailed review and redaction of body-worn camera footage—an effort supporting transparency, accountability, and public trust. Jay also served as Evidence back-up, stepped in as security detail during city commission meetings and events, and played an active role in supporting front-line operations. Despite his behind-the-scenes responsibilities, Jay continued to represent the department in the community, most notably at Water Safety Day, National Night Out, Halloween, and Christmas in Bunnell. Practically every morning, Jay can be found supporting the school crossing guard on East Moody Blvd ensuring children get to school safely. His ability to consistently perform time-intensive, detail-oriented tasks with accuracy and professionalism—while also stepping forward to serve the public directly—exemplifies the mission of the Bunnell Police Department and earned him this well-deserved recognition.

2024 Officer of the Year: Public Safety Officer Rommel Scalf

The ceremony concluded with the department’s highest honor—2024 Officer of the Year awarded to Public Safety Officer Rommel Scalf.

Known for his humility, tireless work ethic, and quiet leadership, Officer Scalf became a cornerstone of the department’s operational success and a respected mentor among his peers. From managing evidence, training reports, and grant coordination, to providing safety and security at the school crossing, National Night Out, Halloween, and Christmas in Bunnell, to presenting safety seminars and reviewing city development plans, his service touches nearly every facet of the department’s mission. He embraces the agency’s motto of “Service Above Self,” and is an embodiment of servant leadership.

“These individuals represent the very best of public service,” said Chief David Brannon. “They embody the hallmarks of Servant Leadership, leading by example—day in and day out—with integrity, compassion, and excellence. We’re honored to recognize them, and grateful to the City Commission and our community for standing beside us.”

As National Police Week continues, the Bunnell Police Department invites residents to remember those who gave their lives in the line of duty and to show appreciation for those who continue to serve with courage and conviction.