Officers Involved in Middletown Shooting Identified
The two police officers who were involved in an apparent "suicide by cop" incident on July 13 have been identified.
Officer George Neilson, an 11-year veteran of the City of Middletown Police who had previously served with the New York City Police Department, and Officer Jason Berman, a 10-year veteran of the City of Middletown Police, who also had previously served with the New York City Police Department.
The officers responded to a 911 call on July 13, and found Richard Dinneny, 53, standing outside his ex-girlfriend's home holding a weapon. Police ordered him to drop the gun several times.
When he refused, two responding officers fired several shots. Dinneny's weapon turned out to be a black pellet gun, which resembled a semiautomatic pistol.
Lieutenant Gregory W. Metakes, stated in a press release:
Both officers have served with distinction throughout their careers and are respected members of the City of Middletown Police Department.