An NYPD officer from Lengthy Island who was killed on responsibility was honored with a avenue renaming Sunday in Levittown. The long-overdue honor turned a actuality because of the ability of an timeless friendship.
NYPD Officer Robert Denton of Levittown was killed within the line of responsibility on July 24, 1971. He was on patrol close to the 73rd Precinct in Brooklyn when a person slashed his throat in an unprovoked assault. Denton was 26.
“He was only a great, great human being. He handled everybody equally,” mentioned Ron Bellistri, who was Denton’s finest good friend since they attended Abbey Highway Elementary College in Levittown within the 1950s.
From the day Denton died, Bellistri vowed to remind folks to always remember his good friend’s service and sacrifice.
“Since then, I have been going to the 73rd Precinct each morning shopping for your complete precinct flowers and breakfast in his title so he can be remembered,” Bellistri mentioned.
In 2021, Bellistri tried to get a avenue renamed in Denton’s honor close to the 73rd Precinct in Brooklyn. The area people board rejected the concept, however Bellistri did not hand over.
When Bellistri advised Nassau County Government Bruce Blakeman about Denton’s story, he paved the best way to renaming a street in Levittown within the fallen officer’s reminiscence.
“If New York Metropolis would not do it, then his hometown will do it,” Blakeman mentioned.
On the day that marked 51 years of Denton’s loss of life, his hometown erupted in applause as Abby Lane was devoted. The road signal sits a number of ft from Denton’s childhood dwelling.
“Today means, after 51 years, that I might lastly have closure,” Bellistri mentioned. “I feel he can be proud, very proud and completely satisfied that his title will likely be on this avenue perpetually.”
Denton was a newlywed when he was killed. He’s survived by a nephew.
This text was initially revealed by cnn.com. Learn the unique article right here.
Comments are closed.