The Peterborough Police Service has recognized seven area residents — including four young teenagers — with citizen recognition awards for their “extraordinary actions” in connection with several incidents in the community.
The awards were presented on Tuesday (December 16) during the Peterborough Police Service board meeting, with each resident receiving a certificate presented by police chief Stuart Betts.
“We thank them for being engaged and willing to help fellow citizens or bring awareness to a crime in progress,” Chief Betts said. “While we don’t want anyone to put themselves in harm’s way, we also recognize that we sometimes find ourselves in compelling situations where we can help. In each of these cases, the actions of these residents made a difference in our community.”
Narissa C., Malory S., Matthew H., and Noah S. – March 2025
While investigating an unrelated incident at Peterborough Square, the officers were approached by four 14-year-old youth who told them they had seen a man with his pants down, gesturing and trying to get one of the girls to join him in a washroom inside the mall.
The four teens went out of their way to make sure this was brought to police attention, and it resulted in the arrest of man who was charged with sexual touching under 16 years of age and failing to comply with a probation order. The teens remained on scene and provided police with statements. The man was later convicted and sentenced to time in jail.
“We thank these four young people for their courage to speak up and leadership,” read a media release from the police.
James T. – August 6, 2024
James was with his wife in a bank on Chemong Road when a man rushed in, ran to a teller, and attempted to rob the bank. Realizing what was happening, James grabbed the would-be robber and wrestled him to the ground, where he was able to detain him until police arrived.
As it turned out, the suspect was wanted in two other robberies that happened in April and July of 2024. In all three robberies, police say, the man splashed lighter fluid on employees although no fires were set.
“We thank James for his quick thinking, and selfless response. His actions assisted officers in solving three robberies and led to the arrest of someone who clearly presented a danger to community safety.”
Ruba V. – April 22, 2025
When an 80-year-old man entered the Esso Gas Station store on Parkhill Road East and attempted to use the Bitcoin ATM machine, Ruba — aware that the man could potentially be a victim of a scam — called police.
He kept the elderly man distracted until the arrival of officers, who prevented him from using the bitcoin machine and becoming a victim of a financial crime. It was further learned that the potential victim suffered from dementia.
“We thank Ruba for being aware of the warning signs of possible frauds and scams, and his willingness to intervene. He truly made a difference in this resident’s life.”
Zachary S. – June 16, 2025
When Zachary saw a 27-year-old man who was on the wrong side of the fence at the top of the Peterborough Lift Lock, he rushed over to the man and was able to grab and hold onto him until police arrived.
Upon their arrival, officers could see the man’s feet dangling from the locks while he was being held by Zachary. Police quickly ran up to the top of the Lift Lock and were able to lift the man back to a spot of safety, where he was apprehended under the Mental Health Act.
“We truly believe the 27-year-old man would not be alive today without this intervention and it goes without saying that the act by this civilian saved a life. We thank Zachary for his actions.”
