Bensalem Deputy Director of Public Safety dies after battle with pancreatic cancer
The recently appointed Bensalem Deputy Director of Public Safety, a longtime officer with the township police department, died after a battle with pancreatic cancer, the township announced Wednesday.
David Richardson, who was appointed the role in January, was with the department for 24 years.
Richardson started as a patrol officer, then became a K-9 officer for 13 years. He had two different K-9 partners, Czar and Prince, during that time. He was promoted to sergeant and oversaw the K-9 unit, patrol division and criminal investigations division.
Harran elected sheriff:Re-elected DA, new row officers take their posts in Bucks County
William McVey promoted to director:Veteran Bensalem officer promoted to public safety director
For susbcribers:17 Days in Bensalem: Floods, violent winds, tornado severely tested area's resolve in July
Richardson was then promoted to lieutenant and was the commander of the criminal investigation division and K-9 unit. He reached deputy director of public safety this year. The department said it was his career-long goal to get the promotion.
Richardson took over the position after William McVey, who had previously held the position, was appointed the township's public safety director. The former director, Fred Harran, left the role at the end of last year after he was elected Bucks County Sheriff.
Harran said Richardson was one of his first hires.
“He gave 100% while always maintaining that balance of putting family first," the sheriff said. "Not everyone can do that. Dave had that talent.”
He said Richardson was a serious man, but had a very unique sense of humor. Richardson, Harran said, was a good man, a great officer and a great father.
"He had the knack down for the balance," he said.
Richardson took on many responsibilities, and would never say no to a job.
“Whatever you wanted Dave to do, he did it, he did it with 110% and without a complaint," he said, adding that Richardson would surpass the expectations given to him.
"The members of the Bensalem Township Police Department are heartbroken and have Dave’s family in our hearts and prayers. The entire community has lost a leader, an advocate and a friend. Dave is survived by his wife Johanna and daughters Ella and Bailey. Dave’s resilience and love for his family, friends and the police department will always be remembered. We vow to continue his fight for justice, support the fight against cancer and watch over his family," a statement from the department reads in part.
This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: Bensalem Deputy Public Safety Director dies after cancer battle
