NEOMED Police Officers Honored

It is not uncommon for those in law enforcement — including members of the Northeast Ohio Medical University Police Department – to risk their lives for others.

NEOMED Police Officers Michael Bussinger (pictured far left) and Terri Moncoveish (pictured far right) were honored Wednesday, Feb. 26, for their bravery, selflessness and courage during an incident close to campus a year ago.

On Feb. 14, 2019, the NEOMED Police Department was called upon to assist the Portage County Sheriff’s Office with the execution of a felony arrest warrant — which quickly escalated into a dangerous situation.

When the Sheriff’s deputy was ignited by a liquid thrown by the suspect, Officer Moncoveish helped extinguish the flames and Officer Bussinger helped take the suspect into custody.

“We are not only committed to ensuring the safety of the NEOMED Community, but we serve the surrounding community as well, especially when our assistance is requested off campus,” says Police Chief Kali Meonske, who also serves as NEOMED’s director of public safety.

The two officers were each presented with the NEOMED Police Department Medal of Valor by Chief Meonske (pictured second from right) and Sergeant Shawn Parker (pictured second from left).

The Medal of Valor is one of the highest awards a NEOMED police officer can receive. It is earned by demonstrating the highest level of courage, professionalism, and selflessness in an extremely hazardous situation directed at civilians and police officers.

“Words cannot express the honor and the pride we have for Officers Bussinger and Moncoveish,” says Chief Meonske.