Police Officers of the Month, June 2004

On Nov. 17th, P.O. Margaret Zafferese of the NYC Police Deptartment had completed a mid­night tour and arrived at her Massapequa home. Upon entering the house she was jumped by two masked men who had just burglarized her neighbors apartment. One of the perps aimed a 9mm handgun at her. Officer Zafferese was able to draw her own weapon and fire two shots, one of which hit a subject in the stomach. She was then pistol whipped and knocked to the ground. The subjects then fled. Officer Zafferese then heard her cell phone ringing, she was able to find it and answer it. It was a friend, an on duty Nassau County Police Officer. After learning what had happened she immediately broadcast an "Officer Needs Assistance" on the Nassau radio.

Officer Zafferese then ran to a neighbors house while bleeding heavily from her head. The neighbor called 911. Within seconds of hearing the radio call Sgt. Howard Sullivan and. P.O. David Veverka of the house from separate directions. Prior to arriving they observed a black Honda Civic occupied by 3 males leaving the immediate area. They decided to stop the car and investigate. As they removed the subjects from the car, one stated that he had been shot. A search of the car found two handguns, one subsequently determined to be Officer Zafferese's off duty gun. A further search revealed ski masks. It was determined that these subjects were involved in the burglary armed with a handgun, and when confronted by PO Zafferese, did attack her. She was out numbered, assaulted but was able to defend herself by shooting one subject.

These officers, PO Zafferese, the victim and Sgt. Sullivan and P.O. Veverka distinguished themselves in the highest traditions of law enforcement. It is with great pleasure that we present PO Margaret Zafferese, Sgt. Howard Sullivan and PO David Veverka the Police Officers of the Month for The Long Island Shields. Congratulations!