Nantucket Police Officers Receive Lifesaving Award, Unit Citations

Members of the Nantucket Police Department were honored Wednesday night for their lifesaving efforts and a recent drug investigation that resulted in the largest cocaine seizure in island history.

The awards include:

• Life Saving Award: Lieutenant Jerry Adams

• Unit Citation Award: Detective Lieutenant Dan Mack, and Detectives Amanda Schwenk, Keith Mansfield, and Jimmy Olson

"We are so fortunate to have an incredible team of professionals, both sworn and non-sworn, who exemplify the very best of public safety," Nantucket Police Department Chief Jody Kasper said. "Their dedication, professionalism, and compassion ensure that our island remains a safe and welcoming place for all. And tonight, we pause not only to express our gratitude to every member of the Nantucket Police Department, but also to recognize a few individuals who have gone above and beyond in their service. Their efforts have made a real impact, and it's my honor to acknowledge their outstanding contributions."

Chief Kasper provided the following descriptions of the events that resulted in the awards and recognitions on Wednesday night.

Lifesaving Award: Lt. Jerry Adams

"This medal is awarded for a highly commendable accomplishment or act on duty accomplished as a result of training, devotion to duty, or service to the public," Kasper said. "On September 27, 2024, while working a security detail for the Nantucket Project dinner at Jetties Beach, Lieutenant Jerry Adams noticed a patron choking and unable to breathe. Acting quickly, he rendered medical aid and successfully dislodged a piece of steak that was obstructing her airway. Thanks to his sharp awareness and decisive action, what could have been a tragedy was avoided. His dedication to duty and commitment to protecting others embody the very best of our profession. Tonight, we recognize and honor Lieutenant Adams for his outstanding work, and we can award him a life-saving medal."

Unit Citation: Detective Lieutenant Dan Mack, and Detectives Amanda Schwenk, Keith Mansfield, and Jimmy Olson

"The unit citation is awarded for participation of the members of an operating unit and or a department group in a noteworthy action that, through their individual contributions to a joint endeavor, resulting in a commendable accomplishment and or public accolades bestowed upon them and the department as a whole. In 2024, members of the Nantucket Police Detective Division launched an extensive investigation into a significant drug-dealing operation in our community. For months, they worked tirelessly to gather intelligence, conduct surveillance, and build a solid case. By February 2025, their dedication had paid off. They secured a search warrant for the suspect's home. With the support of additional NPD officers, they executed the warrant, uncovering more than five pounds of a substance believed to be cocaine. The suspect was arrested and charged with trafficking cocaine, marking what is believed to be the largest drug seizure in Island history. Cases like these are complex and demand persistent skill and an unwavering commitment to keeping our community safe. Tonight, we recognize and commend the detectives whose diligence brought this investigation to a decisive and impactful conclusion. We recognize Detective Lieutenant Dan Mack and detectives Amanda Schwenk, Keith Mansfield, and James Olson for their outstanding work, and award them each the Unit Citation."