Policemen's Benevolent Association, Local 59
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Fallen but Never Forgotten

 
 

Chief Philip John DeSantis

End of Watch August 6, 1973

Chief DeSantis was stabbed to death by a suspect who had just robbed a gas station and stabbed the attendant to death. Chief DeSantis was at home when he heard the call from a neighboring agency. He located the man and pulled him over. The suspect was known to him so he began to search for him. During the search the man stabbed him with a screwdriver or metal file before fleeing. The suspect was later apprehended.

 

Patrolman Michael P Cullinane Sr.

End of Watch August 26, 1992

Officer Michael Cullinane died when he attempted to rescue an unconscious worker from a construction pit at 26th Street and Landis Avenue. During the attempted rescue, Officer Cullinane was overcome by lethal gasses.

One day prior, Officer Cullinane was an integral part of the rescue efforts which saved another construction worker's life at the same job site.

Officer Cullinane was a reserve member of the New Jersey Air National Guard 177th Fighter Interceptor Unit where he served as a Staff Sergeant (E6) on the Security Police unit. He had served with the Sea Isle City Police Department for 11 years and was survived by his wife, son, mother, five sisters, and three brothers.

 

Patrolman David C. douglass Sr.

End of Watch February 18, 1994

Patrolman David Douglass was shot and killed while responding to the report of a burglar in the area of Sunnyside Avenue and Fieldview Avenue.

Patrolman Douglass engaged in a foot pursuit of the suspect, who had just set a house on fire. During the pursuit, the suspect turned and shot him. Patrolman Douglass returned fire, striking the suspect in the hand. He was able to make it back to his patrol car and call for assistance. Sadly, Patrolman Douglass later succumbed to his wounds.

The 49-year-old suspect who shot him was arrested two days later at his home in New York City. He plead guilty to murder and was sentenced to life. He will be eligible for parole on March 30, 2024.

Patrolman Douglass had served with the Lower Township Police Department for 18 years, as well as serving as a Lieutenant on the Town Bank Fire Department. He helped create the Lower Township SWAT team, he was an instructor at the Cape May County Police Academy and a past president of the Policeman's Benevolent Association. He is survived by his wife, son, daughter, and step-daughter.

 

Patrolman eUGENE j. mIGLIO, iii

End of Watch June 2, 1995

Officer Miglio suffered a fatal heart attack after being kicked in the head by the sister of a speeding motorist he had pulled over at 4:00 a.m.

The 35-year-old suspect was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to 5 years.

Officer Miglio had served with the agency for 14 years. He was survived by his wife, daughter, and son.