Two Veteran Officers, K-9 Hang Up The Badge

Two veteran law enforcement officers and a long-serving police dog have retired after years of service to the area.

In Bristol Township, Police Chief C.J. Winik honored Lt. Sean Cosgrove, who retired after more than 30 years with the department.

A Bristol Township native and U.S. Air Force veteran, Cosgrove joined the force as a patrolman in 1995.

Cosgrove’s time in the department was marked by more than 21 years as a sergeant—the longest period anyone has held that rank in the department’s history.

“That achievement alone speaks volumes about the dedication and respect he’s earned with those around him,” Winik said recently.

He was promoted to lieutenant in 2022 and Cosgrove served as patrol commander.

Winik, who served under Cosgrove when he was a sergeant, described the longtime lawman as a mentor who provided a “steady presence” during challenging periods.

“His leadership was not only about supervision,” Winik said. “It was about mentorship, support, and setting an example.”

Cosgrove’s philosophy about police work: “Come to work, work hard, and Mother Bristol will take care of you.”

The police department and Bristol Township Council recognized Cosgrove for his years of dedicated service.

“Thank you,” the retiring command officer said.

“Lt. Cosgrove’s impact on this department and this community will be felt for many years to come,” Winik said.

In Middletown Township, Officer Michael Marks retired last month after a career spanning nearly 30 years.

Marks, a graduate of the Philadelphia Police Department Academy, joined the Middletown Township police force in January 1996.

Middletown Township Chief of Police Joseph Bartorilla said Marks was a dependable officer who frequently served as the officer in charge when supervisors were unavailable.

During his career, Marks served as a field training officer, drone operator, firearms instructor, and K-9 handler for dogs Usher and Bach.

“Every day he came to work, he helped make this police department a better place and our community a safer place,” Bartorilla said.

Marks, a local resident whose children attended Neshaminy High School, shared his pride in his work but also noted the personal sacrifices of the job.

“I have to thank my family and my kids for putting up with me for their lives — missing birthdays and family events,” Marks said.

The Middletown Township Board of Supervisors also recognized the retirement of K-9 Jester.

Since 2017, Jester served alongside Sgt. Steve Andrews as an explosives detection and patrol dog.

The duo assisted multiple agencies with hundreds of tracks and searches, the chief said.

The Middletown Community Foundation, which has raised enough over the years to fund seven police dogs for the township, continues to support the program.

The foundation helped purchase the department’s newest dog, CJ.

“That equals approximately $80,000, maybe a little more, which is a significant burden which is relieved from our police department and township budgets,” Middletown Community Foundation President Juleece Argust said.

The foundation’s next K-9 fundraiser is scheduled for early fall.