Niagara County Academy adds another Haug to police life
For graduating officer, it’s a family tradition
SANBORN — Jason Haug, who graduated Tuesday from the 49th Basic Course for Police Officers at the Niagara County Law Enforcement Academy, follows a family tradition of careers in law enforcement.
Haug, 26, a member of the Niagara Falls Police Department, joins two cousins in the business. Michael Haug is an Erie County sheriff’s deputy. And Lt. Jesse Haug, a member of the Town of Tonawanda Police Department for the past nine years, is the youngest officer ever promoted to lieutenant by the town.
Jason’s younger brother, David, 22, also is considering a law enforcement career.
Michael said he gave Jason a few pointers when he decided to make the move into the police academy.
“It’s absolutely the best job going in the whole world, but there is no price on loving what you do,” he said.
Jason’s dad, Tom Haug, said he couldn’t be more proud of his son’s career choice.
And Jason, who left teaching, is convinced he made the right decision.
“I saw Jesse enjoyed it and Michael enjoyed it,” he said. “I’ve only been on the job three weeks, but it’s always something different. I hope that I can move up the ranks and become a lieutenant.”
Niagara Falls Police Superintendent John R. Chella noted that family support is essential for those forging a career in law enforcement.
“Your most important trusted ally is the people sitting in front of you today,” he told the graduates — including 12 men and two women — at the Niagara County Community College ceremony. “You will develop some great relationships, but none will be as long-lasting as the bond you have with your family. With their support, any problem can be overcome.”
State Sen. George D. Maziarz, R-Newfane, the keynote speaker, was able to shake the hand of his stepdaughter, Barker Police Officer Tricia K. Denny, also an academy graduate. Denny received the Jeffrey A. Incardona Memorial Award, which exemplifies the spirit and attitude of an unsung leader.
Other award winners included: Genesee County Sheriff’s Deputy James M. Diehl, Joseph E. Steblein Memorial Award (the top award for overall excellence) and Defensive Tactics and the High Proficiency in Firearms awards; and Lockport Police Officer Paul C. Meerboth, Academics and Physical Fitness awards.
Other graduates are Niagara Falls Police Officers Richard L. Abramowski, Shaun P. Bielec, Raymond D. Folmar, Jeffrey Grzeskowiak, Kevin M. Maluchnik, Thomas J. Rodgers and Henry J. Walerowicz; Middleport Officer Joshua S. Cain; Lockport Officer Heather M. Glenn; and Genesee County Sheriff’s Deputy Kevin R. Mc- Carthy.
