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Article Archive > Amato and PD honored by Keansburg council Amato and PD honored by Keansburg council On Wednesday, July 23, the Keansburg Borough Council honored Monmouth County SPCA Chief of Police Victor "Buddy" Amato and three members of the Police Department for one of their recent acts of bravery. All four would probably tell you it was all part of a day's work. This particular incident took place on Monday, May 19, when Amato helped the Keansburg Police Department pacify 51-year-old Julia Smith, of Keansburg, who was carrying an inert hand grenade and a 12-inch butcher knife. Keansburg Chief of Police Raymond O'Hare, Capt. Michael Allfrey and Patrolman James Nelson were also honored during the public session The conflict took place over the course of about an hour, during which time the officers negotiated with Smith and purchased the grenade from her when she complained about having no money. Amato and the three members of the Keansburg Police Department were honored with a valor award for saving the life of a Keansburg resident. Mayor Arthur Boden, Deputy Mayor James Cocuzza Sr., Councilwoman Lisa Strydio, Councilman George Hoff and newly elected Councilman Anthony DePompa applauded the men for their bravery and ability to do their job, no matter what the situation. The accommodation will be recorded on the officers' permanent records. The animal lover Amato does not lack when it comes to community recognition. For the past five years, Amato has served as the chief of police for the Monmouth County Society for the SPCA. He has been honored on many occasions and is known throughout Monmouth County, perhaps even New Jersey, as the ultimate animal lover. Amato was recently nominated for the Animal Planet's Hero of the Year Award, a national recognition given to a dedicated and deserving animal lover. Amato more than qualified for the nomination; he has saved hundreds of animals over the course of his career. Prominent cases involving Amato include Anthony Appolonia, who was charged and indicted on 19 counts of third-degree animal cruelty; the largest cock-fighting bust in New Jersey, which took place in Howell; and incidents involving the Santeria murders of animals in Monmouth County. Amato has also saved countless animals from being abused. Some say it is his mission in life; perhaps the animals would just say thank you.
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