SYRACUSE -- Two Onondaga County Sheriff's deputies are being honored for their heroic actions during a deadly confrontation with an armed man.
Deputies Michael Hoosock and Adam Quku are being honored by the New York State Sheriff's Association at its annual Heroes' Luncheon in Albany. The two local deputies are receiving the Deputy of the Year Award.
They are being recognized for their actions on May 5, 2011 when responding to the Central New York Regional Transportation Center.
Deputies Hoosock and Quku were confronted by 55-year-old Benjamin Campione, of Syracuse, who pulled, what appeared to be, a .357 Magnum from his waistband. Both deputies along with Syracuse police Sgt. Anthony Rossillo were forced to fire their guns to protect themselves and the public. Campione's gun turned out to be a pellet gun that looks just like a Smith & Wesson revolver.
A grand jury later cleared the two deputies and officer, saying they acted appropriately. "This is very well deserved; the display of exceptional judgment in dealing with such an unpredictable and potentially deadly situation defines their commitment to our community," said Sheriff Kevin Walsh.
Campione was killed in the incident.
His family later told CNY Central he was a former green beret who suffered from a number of mental problems and was often homeless.
