Galloway Cop Who Got Slashed In Face On Duty Nominated For Valor Award

GALLOWAY, NJ — A Galloway police officer who, while responding to a call, was slashed in the face so violently that his mouth and teeth were exposed, is nominated for a statewide valor award.

It would be the second such award for Officer Erik Tarnow, who received a bronze medal for his actions during the New Jersey State Policemen's Benevolent Association Valor Awards this past November.

This nomination is for the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police (NJSACOP) annual Valor Award, which honors police officers for bravery and exceptional heroism.

During an April 7, 2024 incident, Tarnow was attacked. He was responding to a mental health crisis at the time. Keith Kiminsky, now indicted on an attempted murder charge, suddenly darted out of his home's front door and stabbed Tarnow in the face. (SEE BODYCAM VIDEO OF THE ATTACK HERE)

That night, Tarnow had to be taken in for emergency surgery, as his cheek was cut so severely that his mouth and teeth were exposed, authorities said. The gash was also close to his carotid artery, which carries blood to the brain. Read more: Galloway Cop Stabber Indicted On Attempted Murder Charge: Prosecutor

"Despite the injury, Officer Tarnow's resilience allowed him to stay in the fight and place his attacker in custody," Galloway police said previously. "His actions certainly prevented potential injuries to other officers as well as the public."

Tarnow is one of 16 nominees. The winner will be announced at the 113th annual Training Conference & Police Security Expo, held June 23-26 in Atlantic City.