This month’s Police Officers of the Month are P.O. Ismael Vega, Dionte Pearl and Robquetta Lavender, who recently went beyond the call of duty, as described by the following narration provided by Second District Sergeant Brendon Melbar, “On March 26, 2026 Officers Vega and Pearl responded to a call for a male who claimed to be in great danger.
Upon arriving, they located a mentally challenged 18-year- old male who was soaking wet from standing in the freezing rain. The male stated his father had beat him with a baseball bat because he left a basketball in the rain. It was apparent that the male suffered from a mental disability and had injuries to his ankles from his father hitting him. They conveyed the male to the hospital. The officers went above and beyond to help this male. The officers made numerous calls to child family services, 696 Kids and attempted to contact family and other resources to learn more about the male’s disability. They responded to the victim’s home address in an attempt to locate the father, who was not on the scene while the male was being treated at the hospital. Ultimately, the officers returned to the hospital and returned the victim home.
The child was adamant on attending school in the morning claiming he couldn’t miss school. The officers reminded the victim he was soaking wet and got the child fresh warm clothing from his home and conveyed him to the Second District where he felt safe and could stay dry. The officers bought sandwiches and drinks for the male who stated he was hungry and brought them back to him, who then slept at the police station until it was time for school.
These officers made many calls and sought resources which became difficult with the communication barrier due to the male’s disability. It was determined that the school would need to contact child family services with a diagnosis so they could assist as he was 18 and they offer help to individuals with a medical diagnosis up to the age of 22. These officer’s determination and compassion relieved the fear and stress the young man was feeling. This was great to see as both of these officers are new to the career.
As Officer Lavender arrived for day shift, she instantly became interested in the helping and learned of the particulars. She provided toothpaste and mouth wash for the male and then she conveyed him to school where the details of the assault were able to be communicated to child family services , who were then able to get involved and find placement for the young man. It was apparent to me that this individual was grateful and felt safe and no longer hungry. He was extremely happy to make it to school that morning.”
It is because of their compassion and determination that the Cleveland Police Foundation is honored to name Patrol Officers Ismael Vega #2598, Dionte Pearl #1818 and Robquetta Lavender #2584 our Police Officers of the Month for March 2026. (Bob Guttu CPF) (Nominated by Second District Sergeant Brendon Melbar)
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