Â鶹ÊÓƵ's Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes people who demonstrate the valuable contributions to their professions, community and their nation. All biographical information current at the time of the award.
Degree:
- Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice '82
Bio:
A lifelong resident of Berks County, David Yoch graduated from Governor Mifflin High School with aspirations for a career in Criminal Justice and more specifically as a police officer. Inspired by a teacher, he applied to Alvernia College and was accepted into the Criminal Justice program graduating in 1982.
Dave served the Wyomissing Police Department for more than 28 years. His tenure included working patrol, being named to the Berks County District Attorney’s Office Narcotics Enforcement Team, and the Criminal Investigation Unit. He also was a member of the Berks County DA’s Major Crimes and Drug Task Force as well as a negotiator and Assistant team leader for the Berks County Emergency Response team.
Serving with a heart of compassion, Dave earned more than thirty-five Letters of Commendation, Unit Citations Awards, Exceptional Duty Awards, Meritorious Services Awards, and Lifesaving awards.
Since 2014, Dave has served as the Magisterial District Judge for the municipalities of Shillington, Mohnton, Kenhorst, and Cumru Township. He also serves as an instructor for the Pennsylvania Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commissions and taught for 14 years at the Reading Police Academy. Dave is an adjunct instructor for the Pennsylvania State Fire Academy teaching a number of disciplines for Bucks County Community College.
He has been a member of the Shillington Fire Company for the past 49 years serving as a junior firefighter, firefighter, Lieutenant, and Captain, and currently serves as 2nd Assistant Fire Chief. Dave is a member of St. John’s Reformed Church in Sinking Spring and serves as an active volunteer with his wife Susan for Family Promise of Berks County; Wilson Area Food Pantry, Good Shepherd Mission of Puttur, India, Compassion, Helping Harvest, Hope Rescue Mission and Truth for Life.
