On Friday, April 24, an obstructed license plate led to the arrest of a 26-year-old man, who was charged with multiple felonies at JFK International Airport. PAPD police officers observed the vehicle and conducted a motor vehicle stop. An initial investigation revealed the vehicle’s license plate was suspended. As officers continued their investigation, they discovered a false vehicle identification number (VIN) plate affixed over the authentic VIN plate. A computer check of the authentic VIN showed the vehicle had been reported stolen in 2023. In addition to possessing stolen property, the suspect was found in possession of narcotics and drug paraphernalia. The police officers involved were Devin Nieves, Sean Welsh, Sevastianos Papasevastos and Frederick Kirk.
In Remembrance: PAPD Police Captain John M. Collins
The Port Authority PBA always honors and remembers Port Authority Police Captain John M. Collins (EOW April 26, 2024). Captain Collins succumbed to a 9/11 illness contracted during his heroic and selfless work in the toxic environment of the World Trade Center Rescue and Recovery. Captain, continue your peaceful rest in the Lord’s eternal embrace. Always Honored, Never Forgotten.
In Remembrance: Chicago Police Officer John Bartholomew
Rest in peace, Chicago Police Officer John Bartholomew (EOW April 25, 2026). Officer Bartholomew was shot and killed by a robbery suspect he and his partner had transported to a hospital for evaluation. His partner was also shot and seriously wounded. Officer Bartholomew was 38 years old and had served with the Chicago Police Department for 10 years. His partner is a 57-year-old, 21-year veteran of the department. John, rest in the Lord’s eternal embrace. Always Honored, Never Forgotten.
PAPD Celebrates “Bring Your Kids to Work Day”
On April 23, the Port Authority Police Department celebrated “Bring Your Kids to Work Day” at PAPD commands, headquarters and the Special Operations Division, along with Port Authority of New York and New Jersey civilian workforce units. Here are some photos from the George Washington Bridge and New Jersey Marine Terminals.
New York Mets Honor Fallen PAPD Police Officer John Cortazzo
On April 23, the New York Mets honored fallen Port Authority Police Officer John Cortazzo (EOW March 14, 2009). His son, Port Authority Police Officer Anthony Cortazzo, threw out the first pitch on Mets First Responders Night at Citi Field. The Port Authority Police Department Honor Guard presented the colors as the national anthem was performed. The PAPD also displayed a Special Operations Division Emergency Service Unit truck in front of Citi Field. John was a longtime Special Operations Division K-9 officer. The Port Authority PBA thanks the New York Mets for remembering and honoring John.
Port Authority Officers Compete in Boston and Jersey City Marathons
The PAPD Running Club excelled in Boston and Jersey City, with members participating in the Boston Marathon and the Jersey City Marathon and Half-Marathon while proudly representing the Port Authority Police Department. Police Officer Alex Salzman, PAPD Bus Terminal Command, ran the Boston Marathon on Monday, April 20. This was Alex’s fourth marathon. Police Officers Luisa Diaz and Susan Zambrano, PAPD Newark Airport Command, ran their first half-marathons at the Jersey City Marathon and Half-Marathon on Sunday, April 19. Police Officer Geraldo Dela Cruz, PAPD LaGuardia Airport Command, ran his second marathon in Jersey City last Sunday.