Sheriff’s deputy, firefighter, teacher and two students honored by Masonic lodge in Arabi
Zulli, who has worked in Parish Prison since last December after several years in the military, was assigned in July to watch at University Hospital in New Orleans a federal prisoner who had been part of a ruthless gang.
At some point the man broke out of his hospital restraints and tried to escape and the corrections officer had to hold him on his own after a struggle for several minutes until additional help arrived.
For his efforts which prevented the prisoner from escaping and possibly injuring others, Zulli was recognized by a Masonic Lodge in Arabi on Oct. 20 as part of a ceremony which included honoring parish fire-fighter Capt. Eric Crotwell, first-grade teacher Dr. Michelle Daussin of Joseph Davies Elementary and two seniors at Chalmette High, Sarah Russell and Dominick Curole.
The Andrew Jackson Lodge No. 428 F & AM held a ceremony at its lodge on Lebeau Street in Arabi, with its Master Sammy Shahine and past Master Richard Montelongo Sr. presiding.
Crotwell has been a fire fighter since 2001 and has been involved in several life-saving efforts on duty as well as the rescue of parish residents following Hurricane Katrina.
Daussin is in her sixth year teaching and has been a Louisiana Teacher of the Year semi-finalist, a Teacher of the Year at Joseph Davies Elementary and was recently recognized by the New Orleans Saints.
Both Russell and Curole are honor students and athletes in several school sports.
Sheriff James Pohlmann spoke at the event, saying he was proud of Zulli’s efforts and told Masonic officials, “We appreciate you taking your time to honor these people.’’ Col. John Doran, Lt. Robert Broadhead and Lt. Dennis Morgan also represented the Sheriff’s Office.
Fire Department Deputy Chief Karl Bruder also represented the department at the event.