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Newton Today
By the People, for the People
Newton Police Recognized for Lifesaving Actions, Investigative Work
Officers honored for responses ranging from structure fire rescue to kidnapping investigation
Published on Feb. 14, 2026
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The Newton town council recognized several police officers for their actions during dangerous and high-profile incidents, including a structure fire rescue, a kidnapping investigation, and an organized retail theft operation. The officers were presented with awards such as the Lifesaving Award and Honorable Service Award for their quick thinking, investigative skills, and community engagement.
Why it matters
The recognition of the Newton police officers highlights the diverse range of responsibilities and challenges they face in serving their community, from emergency response to complex criminal investigations. It also demonstrates the department's commitment to public safety and building positive relationships with residents.
The details
The Lifesaving Award was presented to Sgt. Russell Post, Officer Justin Sibblies, Officer Anthony Vertano, and Special Officer Miguel Aviles for their response to an active structure fire, where they immediately entered a heavy smoke environment to stabilize the situation. Lt. Dan Finkle and Detective Peter Vex received an Honorable Service Award for their roles in an investigation connected to a kidnapping incident near Morris County Community College, which involved the use of a drone. The police also investigated an organized retail theft operation targeting local stores and recognized Officer Mark Fleming for correctly identifying a paintball gun, as well as Patrolman Donald Wagner for de-escalating an encounter with an armed individual.
- The awards were presented by the Newton town council on February 14, 2026.
The players
Sgt. Russell Post
A Newton police officer who received the Lifesaving Award for his response to an active structure fire.
Officer Justin Sibblies
A Newton police officer who received the Lifesaving Award for his response to an active structure fire and assisted a child during a difficult situation.
Officer Anthony Vertano
A Newton police officer who received the Lifesaving Award for his response to an active structure fire.
Special Officer Miguel Aviles
A Newton police officer who received the Lifesaving Award for his response to an active structure fire.
Lt. Dan Finkle
A Newton police officer who received an Honorable Service Award for his role in an investigation connected to a kidnapping incident near Morris County Community College.
Detective Peter Vex
A Newton police officer who received an Honorable Service Award for his role in an investigation connected to a kidnapping incident near Morris County Community College, and assisted a child during a difficult situation.
Officer Mark Fleming
A Newton police officer who correctly identified a paintball gun during a call on Swartswood Road.
Patrolman Donald Wagner
A Newton police officer who de-escalated an encounter involving an armed individual.
What they’re saying
“These patrols were able to take a very volatile situation and bring it under control quickly, helping to protect lives and prevent further damage.”
— Councilwoman Michelle Teets (tapinto.net)
“Lieutenant Dan Finkle and Detective Peter Vex received an Honorable Service Award. That goes back to the drone assisting with that kidnapping incident.”
— Councilwoman Michelle Teets (tapinto.net)
“These were known shoplifters part of a gang targeting different stores. A very elaborate shoplifting ring was in our neighborhood.”
— Councilwoman Michelle Teets (tapinto.net)
“Officer Sibblies convinced the little boy to come with him. Detective Vex got him a backpack with the supplies needed.”
— Councilwoman Michelle Teets (tapinto.net)
“Patrolman Wagner successfully built a rapport with the subject. He persuaded him to safely surrender his weapon.”
— Councilwoman Michelle Teets (tapinto.net)
What’s next
The Newton town council will continue to recognize the outstanding work of the police department and support their efforts to maintain public safety in the community.
The takeaway
The recognition of the Newton police officers highlights the diverse range of responsibilities they handle, from emergency response to complex criminal investigations, and demonstrates the department's commitment to serving the community through quick thinking, investigative skills, and positive community engagement.
