Autistic Man Honors Lakewood Police Department
Alex Mann, a 23-year-old with autism from Chester County, Pennsylvania, has made it his goal to visit as many police departments as possible to raise awareness about autism and show support for law enforcement officers. Mann visited the Lakewood Police Department, his 400th police agency in five different states, on August 8, 2023.
Mann first met with Chief of Police, Gregory H. Meyer, and the Community Relations Unit, along with other important members, for coffee and pastries. Afterward, Mann had an exclusive tour of the police department. The Community Relations Unit then took Mann and other key members of the department on a patrol ride-along in the BearCat throughout the Town of Lakewood Township, stopping by various landmarks. They also visited the Fire Department Local 80 to meet with Chief Jon Yahr for a tour and The Sheldon Wolpin Lakewood Historical Museum Police Memorial Wall for some photos.
The event ended with a light fare, a specialty cake, and a plaque presentation. Mann received police patches, challenge coins, police blouse, and Lakewood Township logo memorabilia as a token of appreciation for his achievements.
Chief Gregory H. Meyer said, “On behalf of the men and women of the Lakewood Police Department, we were honored by your visit and for your dedication to honoring those that serve in the Law Enforcement profession. We hope you enjoyed your day as well as your visit here, which also marks your 400th department visit, quite a milestone. Thank you Alex for letting us help support your journey while making some great memories!”
Special recognition goes to The Community Relations Unit led by Sergeant Kenny Burdge and Detective Sergeant Jeannette Shimonovich, Ptl. Jason Yahr, and Ptl. Kevin Bell.
Local establishments showed their appreciate by donating a billboards display @Scoop Outdoor; donated pastries, wraps, and iced coffee from HOT BAGELS (232 Second Street); Delicious Cake, Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish-Lakewood; and a tour of Sheldon Wolpin Lakewood Historical Museum Police Memorial Wall by Jimmy Esposito.
Photos: #1: Detective Sergeant Jeannette Shimonovich, Alex Mann, Sergeant Kenny Burdge, Ptl. Jason Yahr
#2: Alex Mann w. Det. Sgt. Jeannette Shimonovich #3: Alex Mann, Lakewood Police Chief Greg Meyer, and Several Lakewood Policemen Welcome Alex Mann #4: Lakewood Police Chief Meyer Presents Alex Mann with Welcome Plaque #5: The Welcome Plaque for Alex Mann