Folsom correctional officer earns Bronze Star Award for off duty heroics

Officer John Costello saved an accident victim’s life on his way to work

Local Correctional Officer John Costello, of California State Prison, Sacramento in Folsom, was among the 16 California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) employees recognized at the 39th annual Medal of Valor Ceremony held Friday. Officer Costello received a Bronze Star Medal, highlighting his heroic efforts earlier this year when he saved a life using his medical expertise while off-duty.

In February of 2023, Costello was driving while off duty and came upon the scene of a car accident in Lincoln, where the driver was unconscious and not breathing. Without hesitation, Costello leaped into action, pulling the victim from the vehicle and initiating CPR. He continued performing life-saving measures for 10 minutes until local law enforcement arrived. Even then, Costello remained engaged, directing officers to retrieve an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), which he utilized while administering CPR. His quick thinking and professionalism in a high-pressure situation made all the difference, sustaining the victim until advanced medical personnel could take over.

For his actions, Costello was honored with the Bronze Star Medal, which is awarded to CDCR employees who save a life without placing themselves in immediate danger. Costello’s calm, steady leadership during the crisis showcased not only his medical skills but also his dedication to public safety.

The annual Medal of Valor Ceremony, hosted at the Richard A. McGee Correctional Training Center in Galt, recognized a total of 16 CDCR employees for acts of bravery, heroism, and service far beyond the call of duty. This year’s recipients spanned a wide range of CDCR facilities and disciplines, highlighting the dedication of those working within California’s correctional system.

In addition to Officer Costello, the ceremony celebrated other individuals. Correctional Sergeant Charles Davis from Pelican Bay State Prison and Senior Laboratory Assistant Thomas Coyle from Mule Creek State Prison were awarded CDCR’s highest honor, the Medal of Valor. In separate incidents, both demonstrated extraordinary courage in life-threatening situations. Sergeant Davis risked his life by entering a burning house to save a young man and three dogs, while Coyle intervened during a multi-vehicle accident involving high-voltage power lines, saving multiple lives.

Correctional Officer Rogelio Tienda, from California State Prison, Corcoran, received the Gold Star Medal for his heroic actions under extraordinary circumstances, demonstrating bravery to save the life of another.

Several officers were awarded the Silver Star Medal for acts of bravery under extraordinary or unusual circumstances. Among them were Correctional Sergeant Jumel Moises from California State Prison, Centinela, along with Correctional Officers Joseph Masterson, Christopher Castanon, and Correctional Sergeant Jesse Winslow from Sierra Conservation Center, Jamestown.

In addition to Officer John Costello, the Bronze Star Medal was presented to Correctional Officer Jose Ortega from California State Prison, Corcoran; Parole Agent Ron Agredano from the Division of Adult Parole Operations, Stockton; Associate Governmental Program Analyst Velina Morales from the Division of Adult Parole Operations, Sacramento; Correctional Sergeant Ronald Franklin from Pelican Bay State Prison; Transportation Officer Fidencio Ramirez from Substance Abuse Treatment Facility and State Prison, Corcoran; and Correctional Officer Imelda Holbrooke from Ironwood State Prison, Blythe.

CDCR Secretary Jeff Macomber praised all recipients, stating, “Today, we honor the brave and selfless deeds of our employees who have courageously risked their own safety to assist others. It’s not surprising but it is noteworthy that CDCR employees are prepared to step up when our communities need us. Today’s awards demonstrate that dedication to community by our coworkers extends beyond their duties and uniforms.