Man Gets Prison Term For Role in Smitty's Death

Bruce Knapik was sentenced to three years in prison at state Superior Court in Derby on January 5 for his role in the death of Sgt. Orville "Smitty" Smith

The exact sentence was 10 years, suspended after he serves three. Three years of probation awaits him upon his release. He was immediately remanded upon sentencing.

Sgt. Smith was killed July 2010 due to injuries after his cruiser was struck by Knapik's vehicle on Route 110 while directing traffic after a private fireworks event.

Smith served on the . for 39 years. He is a Marine Corps veteran, serving two tours in Vietnam. He was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal with a ‘V’ for valor. He was a recipient of the Law Enforcement Purple Heart Award and the American Police Hall of Fame Medal of Honor.

Shelton Police Chief Joel Hurliman said the sentencing provides closure for the Smith family and for the entire police department, "which is really extended family."

Hurliman added that today's result "serves to illustrate the continued dangers of police work, even up to your very last day of the job, and also the hazards of drinking and driving."

Hurliman said Knapik was remorseful during court proceedings, at one point addressing the police to "get the next person who drinks and drives so no one will have to deal with the pain this has caused."