The Rehoboth Beach Police Department celebrated excellence within its ranks during their yearly awards ceremony held April 10 at Salero restaurant in the Henlopen Hotel. Captain Jaime Riddle served as master of ceremonies for the event that highlighted outstanding service and dedication.
Top Officer Recognition Goes to Pfc. Devin Maciejewski
Pfc. Devin Maciejewski received the department’s highest honor as Officer of the Year, an award that celebrates exceptional performance, leadership, professionalism, and community service.
Maciejewski stood out in 2025 as one of the most versatile and effective officers on the force. From his early days, he showed eagerness to expand his skills, actively seeking challenging assignments while maintaining high-quality work standards.
His dedication paid off with top statistical performance for the year. Remarkably, Maciejewski ranked first or second in nine out of eleven performance metrics tracked by the department, showcasing remarkable consistency across all policing duties.
Commissioner Gordon, who supervises Maciejewski directly, praised his report writing as comprehensive, detailed, and prompt, demonstrating both understanding of proper documentation and professional standards.
The officer also excelled in proactive enforcement, leading all department members in DUI arrests with three more than the second-place officer.
Beyond numbers, Maciejewski earned praise for professionalism and community connection. Chief Keith Banks commended him after receiving positive feedback from citizens about his conduct during a traffic stop. He also received recognition for his professional behavior during a major public demonstration.
During a CPR/AED emergency call that ended tragically, the victim’s family specifically praised Maciejewski’s compassion and effort during the difficult situation.
Communications Leader Katie Stachowski Honored
Communications Specialist I Katie Stachowski earned Civilian of the Year recognition for setting the standard in the department’s communications center.
Stachowski played a vital role in the department’s RE-ACE re-accreditation process, working across three disciplines to guide the communications center through the complex certification requirements. Her efforts ensured all standards were properly documented and successfully achieved.
During daily operations, Stachowski consistently delivers exceptional performance, handling calls with technical skill and the calm confidence essential during high-stress situations.
Her dedication extends beyond regular duties as she frequently covers overtime shifts when staffing runs short, ensuring uninterrupted operations. Shift after shift, she assists field officers, supports fellow dispatchers during complex incidents, and handles every call with professionalism.
Chamber Leader Carol Everhart Receives Special Honor
Carol Everhart received Special Recognition of Service for her 36-year tenure leading the Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce and her partnership with the police department.
Captain Riddle spoke personally about working with Everhart for 13 years on Sea Witch Festival planning, watching the event grow from requiring a few officers for traffic control to a major operation involving over 100 public safety personnel.
“Carol never said no,” Riddle noted during his remarks. “No matter how aggressive, complex, or safety-driven the idea was, she listened, supported it, and worked alongside us to make it happen.”
Riddle emphasized Everhart’s commitment to safety-first event planning and her collaborative approach that brought together various stakeholders. He added that the Sea Witch Festival “will not be the same” without her involvement.
Life-Saving Actions Recognized
Pfc. Rocco Esposito received a Life Saving Award for his actions on May 3, 2025, during a water rescue at Maryland Avenue and the North Boardwalk.
Around 4:29 p.m., Esposito responded to assist with a water rescue and found a teenage male in distress at the end of a jetty, facing dangerous ocean conditions. Without delay, Esposito removed his equipment and entered the water to reach the individual.
Working with Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company members, Esposito helped secure a life vest on the victim and stayed with him while escorting him safely back to shore. The teenager was treated for minor injuries after being removed from the life-threatening situation.
Additional Recognition and Promotions
Pfc. Maciejewski also earned the Excellence in DUI Enforcement Award, formerly called the M.A.D.D. Award, recognizing his dedication to removing impaired drivers from roadways and preventing tragedies.
Several department members received promotions throughout 2025: Curtis Sauve advanced to Sergeant on May 14, Brian Reynolds became Corporal Grade 1 on May 29, Marie Fuller was promoted to PFC on March 13, and both Timothy Chan and Rocco Esposito earned PFC rank on September 25.
Communications Specialist II Gregory Tietmeyer was recognized for reaching 20 years of service on June 27, 2025.
