Bike Path Rapist Task Force to be honored

The Erie County Law Enforcement Foundation Inc. will recognize members of the Bike Path Rapist Task Force at its 18th annual Community Service Awards Dinner on Nov. 15.

Those being honored for their efforts in the investigation, arrest and conviction of the man who was known locally as the Bike Path Rapist are:

Amherst Police Detective Lt. Joseph LaCorte and Detective Edward Monin; Erie County Sheriff's Chief Scott Patronik, Sgt. Gregory Savage, Detectives Alan Rozansky, Gregory McCarthy, Kevin Mahoney, Steve Meerboth and Deputy James Miruso; New York State Police Capt. Steven Nigrelli, investigators Josh Keats and Christopher Weber and crime analyst Betsy Schneider; Buffalo Police Department Detectives Lissa Redmond and Dennis Delano; Erie County Central Police Services, Dr. John P. Simich; and from the District Attorney's office, Assistant District Attorneys Kenneth Case and Frank Sedita.

These officers are credited with the arrest of Altemio Sanchez, suspected of crimes dating back to 1986. He pleaded guilty to three murders and was sentenced to 75 years to life in prison.

"Buffalo and Erie County are now safer due to the efforts of these fine men and women," said Pat Casilio Sr., chairman of the Erie County Law Enforcement Foundation Inc. "We are delighted to have the opportunity to honor them.

The dinner will be held at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 15 at Salvatore's Italian Gardens, 6461 Transit Road at Genesee Street in Depew.

For information and reservations, call 633-9933 or 674-6874.