Atlantic County Prosecutor Damon Tyner joined Det. Josh Vadell, Det. Tommy McCabe and their families for the first-ever 'Rooted in Justice' tree planting, Monday, May 6 at the Atlantic County Criminal Courts Complex in Mays Landing.
MAYS LANDING - The Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office honored two Atlantic City police officers who epitomize bravery and courage during a ceremony Monday, May 6 at the Atlantic County Criminal Courts Complex.
Retired Atlantic City Police Det. Josh Vadell and Det. Thomas McCabe were the honorees at the first-ever "Rooted in Justice" Commemorative Tree Planting Ceremony on the grounds outside the courthouse.
On behalf of every law enforcement officer that has served in Atlantic County, past and present, we are hopeful that this tree serves as a reminder of the sacrifices that they make for our community each day. So many times we send flowers to mourning families. I cannot be more pleased that Det. Vadell and Det. McCabe are here to appreciate this tree and represent all of those who protect and serve Atlantic County, Prosecutor Damon G. Tyner said.
Vadell and McCabe were honored in recognition of National Police Week, which begins on Sunday, May 12.
It was on Sept. 3, 2016 that Vadell and McCabe attempted to intervene in an armed robbery, disregarding their own safety to help others. Vadell was shot and wounded. One suspect was shot and killed after shooting at McCabe and two other suspects fled and were later located by law enforcement.
Martel D. Chisolm, 31, of Millville and Demetris Cross, 30, of Bridgeton were convicted after a jury found them guilty of robbery, attempted murder, aggravated assault, conspiracy, resisting arrest and obstruction of law.
Vadel and McCabe attended the ceremony with their families. A native New Jersey redbud tree was planted.
"We got a lot of awards, but this is a lot different," McCabe said. "This will be here forever. I hope this is the only tree."
Vadell said the tree planting was a "great honor."
"It represents a lot more than Tommy and I. As the tree grows, the roots it puts down represent our brotherhood and our families. The roots grow strong and the tree will grow big. That bond in the ground hopefully will never change. The bond between us will never change," Vadell said. "I hope everyone who looks at this tree realizes the sacrifices we all make, not just Tommy and I, but the guys who responded, prosecutors and the investigators who sacrifice on so many levels, a lot more than Tommy and me and our families."
Tyner said he plans to make it an annual event to honor those who "do the job."
