Sergeant William Ricca of the Northport Police Department received a Top Cop Award from the Suffolk Police Reserve in January.
On Oct. 13, 2007, at 2:21 a.m., Sgt. Ricca observed a suspicious vehicle outside a convenience store/gas station. The vehicle's driver appeared nervous and was unaware of Sgt. Ricca's presence. As Sgt. Ricca continued to monitor the vehicle and its driver, two people emerged from the business fighting with chains. At that point the vehicle's driver attempted to help an accomplice escape by driving the vehicle into the building.
As the fight ensued, Sgt. Ricca determined that the driver and her accomplice were attempting to rob the store. But the attendant refused to turn over the store's receipts, prompting the fight. Sgt. Ricca called for assistance and held the driver and accomplice at gunpoint.
The two subjects were arrested for attempted robbery in the first degree, criminal possession of a weapon, attempted assault in the first degree and reckless endangerment in the first degree.
For a collection of stories about local police officers who have received honors, click here.