Allentown police mourn Detective James Stanko, community liaison who died Monday
Allentown PA Jan 24 2022
The Allentown Police Department is in mourning over the death of Detective James Stanko, a public face of the department who served as a community liaison officer.
Stanko died Monday morning, the department said in a news release.
Just a week ago, the department made a public call for prayers for Stanko. A post on the department’s Facebook page Jan. 11 said the detective had been hospitalized since the beginning of the year. Another post the next day featured a video of Stanko at work in the community.
Stanko was an Allentown police officer since 2009 and an “integral part of the community outreach unit” involved in programs including the youth police academy, Boy and Girls Club, Police Athletic League and others.
“Jim is the type of officer that represents the highest values and ideals of the Allentown Police Department,” Chief Charles Roca said in the statement, thanking the community for prayers and support. “The positive impact that he made with so many people, speaks to his character and the legacy that he established. From the PAL program to our community policing initiatives, amongst many others.”
Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk said “our Allentown Police Department is better for the years of service that Detective Stanko gave, and his life and career provide a great example of the impact that one person can have on a community. The people of Allentown will miss his kindness and grieve with Jim’s family.”
In his LinkedIn profile, Stanko himself described “the wonderful opportunity to be a public servant for more than 28 years.”
“Throughout my life,” he wrote, “I have been led by the morals that have been instilled in me since a child. My father, my Superman, has taught me the value of honesty, integrity and love.”
The police statement said Stanko is survived by his wife and two daughters and asked for privacy. Services have not yet been announced.
Tuesday evening, the Allentown Police Department posted a tribute video on its Facebook page, featuring photos and video clips of Stanko during his time with the department.
