Rostraver commissioners honor student for reporting incident with gun

Tyler Miller’s actions resulted in the recovery of two stolen firearms.

A Belle Vernon Area Middle School student was recognized Monday by Rostraver Township commissioners and the police department after he recently reported a gun-related incident.

Tyler Miller received a video in mid-January from a former BVA High School student. The video showed the student holding a gun with a fully loaded magazine.

Rostraver Police Department School Resource Officer Michael Sethman stated that Miller promptly reached out to him about the video.

“The student in the video stated he was going to put a hit on somebody,” Sethman said. “Tyler quickly acted and contacted me, and Tyler’s actions resulted in two stolen guns being recovered by a neighboring police department.

“We extend our sincerest congratulations to Tyler for his outstanding service and unwavering commitment to courage. Tyler’s actions may have saved a life.”

Sethman presented Miller with a “Commitment to Courage” award to recognize his actions. Police Chief Scott Sokol presented Miller with new headphones as a gift.

Brian Sokol, a representative from state Rep. Eric Davanzo’s office, commended Miller for having the courage to report the incident.

“I want to acknowledge the commitment for courage of the young man that stepped up,” Brian Sokol said. “Congratulations to you from the House of Representatives for what you did. With what goes on in this world today, it takes quite an individual to want to move forward to do what you did.”

K-9 Duvall

Monday was the official last day for Rostraver Police K-9 Duvall, who has been with the department for almost 10 years. Commissioners unanimously accepted his retirement.

Monday was the official last day for Rostraver Police K-9 Duvall, who has been with the department for almost 10 years. Commissioners unanimously accepted his retirement.
Officer Joseph Spinola has been Duvall’s partner throughout his entire tenure at the department.

Officer Joseph Spinola has been Duvall’s partner throughout his entire tenure at the department. Spinola said Duvall will be taking a much-deserved vacation.

“It has been a great nine years,” Spinola said. “It kind of just flew by. I would do it all over again if I had the opportunity.”

Duvall will continue to be under Spinola’s care during his retirement.

He was the only K-9 in the Rostraver Police Department, but Scott Sokol said the program will continue after Duvall’s retirement.

Brian Sokol, on behalf of Davanzo, also recognized Duvall for his significant work.

“Throughout his career, K-9 Duvall has faithfully served the residents of Rostraver Township and surrounding communities through his work in patrol, tracking and thereby enhancing officer safety and public safety,” Brian Sokol said. “K-9 Duvall has also been a visible and reassuring presence at community events, public safety demonstrations, strengthening the bond between law enforcement and the community.”

Scott Sokol added that the Rostraver Township Police Department is thankful to Alison Tucker for her contribution to helping start Duvall‘s career in 2016.

Rostraver commissioners approved the hiring of Colton Schmeltz as a full-time police officer.

In other business, the board approved the hiring of Colton Schmeltz as a full-time police officer with a start date of July 6.