The Jersey City Police Benevolent Association hosted a fundraiser at Room 84 in Hoboken to benefit the family of fallen Jersey City Police Officer Melvin Santiago.
The event drew a great crowd, including many Hudson County politicians, but only one elected official from Jersey City, Councilman Richard Boggiano.
Assemblyman Carmelo Garcia (D-33) auctioned off many prizes, including New York Jets tickets, and a bicycle, while also presenting Santiago’s family with a commendation from the New Jersey Legislature.
Lydiana Diaz, a Jersey City Police Officer who was a police academy classmate of Santiago, presented a final inspection plaque to Santiago’s mother and family, while also remember the more human side of Santiago.
Room 84 owner Joseph Branco was also awarded a plaque for his assistance with the event, and pledged to hang it over his other bar, Scotland Yard, where Santiago would socialize.
Carmine Disbrow, President of the Jersey City PBA, told Hudson County View that the event at Room 84 was just the beginning of his organization’s commitment to honoring Melvin Santiago.