UTICA, N.Y. - Andrew T. Baxter, United States Attorney for the Northern District of New York and Daniel LaBella, Chief of the Utica Police Department announce that Sgt. Anthony V. Martino was recognized by the U.S. Attorney's Office with the Wallie Howard, Jr. Award for Excellence in Law Enforcement.

Sgt. Martino was honored for his forward-thinking and innovative approaches to the investigation of cyber crimes, particularly those involving the exploitation of children. The award is presented annually in memory of Wallie Howard, Jr., a nine-year veteran of the Syracuse Police Department who gave his life on October 30, 1990 during a drug investigation in Syracuse.

Sgt. Anthony V. Martino has served 16 years as a Utica Police Officer. He was recognized for his outstanding assistance to the U.S. Attorney's Office and to other law enforcement agencies in the investigation of child pornography and other cyber cases and through the forensic examination of computer and electronic evidence. The cyber crime working group formed by Sgt. Martino as part of a master's project at Utica College has developed into a valuable forum for law enforcement to discuss cases and innovations in cyber technology. Through this working group, Sgt. Martino organized effective training and has vastly expanded the ability of law enforcement in Central New York at all levels to meet the technological challenges of crime in the digital age. Now on the adjunct faculty of Utica College, Sgt. Martino is playing a key role in the new computer forensic program at the College and the operation of its state-of-the-art forensic lab.

U.S. Attorney Baxter stated: "Sgt. Martino's foresight and dedication have helped ensure that law enforcement agencies in Upstate New York work together to keep up with everchanging technology, and those who would use it to commit crimes. We appreciate the leadership of the Utica Police Department for recognizing Sgt. Martino's gifts and allowing him to serve as a resource for law enforcement, not just in Utica, but in the wider region." Chief Daniel LaBella stated: "Sergeant Martino's knowledge of cyber crime investigation, as well as other law enforcement matters have helped many in our community and elsewhere.
His vast skills and knowledge in these fields are a great detriment to those who would use technology to commit crimes. The Utica Police Department and the City of Utica are proud of Sergeant Martino and the work he performs in this area."