On Thursday, October 16th, Jim Verdicchio, assistant director of Investigations and Technology Projects for the Department of Public Safety, was presented with the Chief of Detectives Award by the New York City Police Department for his work in identifying the suspects responsible for the death of a Columbia University student in April.
On April 4th, Graduate Schools of Arts and Sciences student Minghui Yu was tragically killed by a passing car at the intersection of West 122nd Street and Broadway as he fled assault. During the course of the investigation, Verdicchio obtained a photo of what would turn out to be the defendant in the case. His work helped the NYPD arrest the suspect within 48 hours of the crime.
"I am thrilled that Jim Verdicchio received this prestigious award," said Jim McShane, vice president for Public Safety. "It is a fitting tribute to all of his efforts in support of the entire Columbia Community. We are very appreciative of Jimmy and the work he does!"
Verdicchio's accomplishment is all the more impressive since the Chief of Detectives Award, one of the NYPD's highest honors, is rarely given to a civilian outside of the Police Department.
