Police Chief Scott Fogel of Lehigh Township presented department commendations to several of his officers recently.

He said complimenting his staff is his favorite part about his job.Commendations go to those officers who have demonstrated their skill and dedication as a police officer during a specific incident.In April, Officer Peterson Myrthil showed exemplary community relations skill and effort. He is the newest full-time officer and has displayed an acute ability to relate to the community.He was on patrol in Danielsville Park and introduced himself to a group of children and their coach, Justin Scholl, during soccer practice and spent time playing with the children.A few weeks earlier he played basketball with youths at the Berlinsville court.Officer Jonathan Roth has logged over 50 volunteer hours properly fitting automotive child safety and booster seats as well as working with the driver safety program Car-fit. He has also trained other officers in the force and from nearby areas.He volunteers at Camp Cadet on his days off. Fogel said providing these services is an integral part of community commitment.Officers Philip Mirabile and Craig Ball responded to an assault in Treichlers, with one person stabbed and shots fired. Through meticulous investigation both weapons were found by Ball and a projectile was found lodged in a house wall.An ex-boyfriend, Andrew Silfies, had forced entry. He had previously been arrested for another violent crime and fled the scene. Due to the officers' efforts, he was caught within 18 hours. Silfies waived a preliminary hearing and was remanded back to prison.Officers were dispatched to Treichlers for the report of an infant who was unresponsive at a day care operating out of a home. First responders, including Roth, attempted unsuccessfully to save the baby.After conducting an assessment, he called Detective Matthew Enstrom.During a 12-month investigation, Enstrom discovered violations. Through coordination with other organizations the case was brought to a grand jury which recommended charges against the day care operator for endangering the welfare of children and recklessly endangering others.An indictment was returned against Sharon Ballek.