Good evening, everyone, and welcome to the January twenty twenty six Warwice Department Awards ceremony.

My name is Officer Ryan Shibley, and I will be the MC this evening.

Tonight, we will be recognizing a few officers who were promoted over the past year, as well as several new officers who recently began their careers with the War Police Department.

We will also be recognizing various officers who have received commendations over the past year, as well as the recipients of this year's chief awards.

It is always a great day, a great day for the Warwick Police Department when we have these ceremonies and are able to celebrate and highlight many of our great officers.

At this time, we will have the posting of the colors and the national anthem.

If everyone could please standard.

Let us pray.

Heavenly Father, sauce of goodness and justice.

We bow our heads tonight before you as we honor these servants of yours.

As new ranks are added and new responsibilities given, and we are grateful for these offices of courage, integrity, and goodness.

In these troublesome times that now challenge this noble profession, and those who wear the badge, we proudly stand with them and are so very thankful for them for the many sacrifices they make and for the dedication that they embody.

Our words of gratitude fall short to repay them.

And so we ask, O Lord, that you help them to always know of your presence in their lives as they turn to you in trials and rejoice with you in victories.

Keep all of them faithful to the tasks ahead.

We ask this of you, O Lord, our God, forever and ever.

Amen.

Thank you, Father.

You may now take your seats.

To my right, the Honorable Mayor Frank J.

Picosi, Council President Anthony Sinapi, Board of Public Safety Members, Chairman Charles Benson, James Paolucci, and Michael Gilbert.

To my left is Colonel Michael Lima, Commander Andrew Sullivan, Major Joel Thomas, Major Robert Hart, and Father Marciano.

I would also like to recognize two retired Warwick Police Department Colonels who are in attendance tonight.

Colonel Stephen McCartney and Colonel Rick Rathbun.

Also here is Gloucester Police Chief Joseph Delpreet, State Representative Earl Reed, General Thomas Hannon, Warwick Fire Chief Peter McMichael, and FOP President Captain Jed Pino.

Also in attendance are Senator, our State Senator and Cranston Police Major Todd Padalano, State Senator Matthew LeMoun, State Senator Mark McKinney, and State Senator Peter Apollonio.

Furthermore, I would also like to recognize uh City Council members William Foley, William Mudo, John Kirby, and also retired Rehoboth Police Chief Stephen Enos.

And as always, I do apologize if I left anyone out, but we do appreciate you being in attendance here tonight.

I'd also like to thank Chief of Staff William Vicenti, active and retired members of the police department, and all of our families and friends for being in attendance.

And lastly, thank you to Director Phil Carlucci and the MIS team for providing a last-minute live stream of tonight's ceremony.

And Phil, I promise I'll get my monthly cybersecurity training done soon.

And if I somehow forget, just know it's because deep down I think your email might be a scam itself.

Good evening, everyone.

Colonel Lima, officers, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen.

I have a great deal of pride in many facets of our community, but none more so than the Warwick Police Department.

Oops.

And they earn that because they are dedicated and passionate about protecting our citizens.

And they also go above and beyond to not only serve our community, but to be a valued part of it.

Our police department played a key role in Warwick being named the safest city in America.

I want to congratulate all of our offices that have been promoted.

The most important part of having an outstanding law enforcement agency is great leadership.

In Warwick, we are very fortunate to have Colonel Lima and his staff provide this, but they have made sure that there is also quality leadership at every level.

And to all of those receiving accommodations and awards tonight, thank you for your dedication and service to the Warwick Police Department and the city of Warwick.

Thank you.

Thank you, Mayor.

I would now like to introduce Warwick Chief of Police, Colonel Michael Lima.

I know I'm on the clock.

The mayor's gonna remind me, so I'll try to make this quick.

Good evening, everyone.

I want to give a warm welcome to retired Warwick Police Chiefs McCartney and Rathbun, to our distinguished guests, proud family members, supporters, and most importantly, the dedicated men and women of our police department, both active and retired.

It is truly an honor to stand before you tonight at this annual promotional and award ceremony.

This evening we come together not just to recognize achievements, but to celebrate the commitment, sacrifice, and courage that define who we are as law enforcement professionals.

In a world that often demands perfection, while offering little forgiveness for the challenges we face daily, gatherings like this remind us why we choose this noble calling to serve, to protect, and to make a difference.

Over a century ago, President Theodore Roosevelt, a man who himself knew the weight of public service, having served as New York City Police Commissioner before becoming president, delivered a speech in Paris that contained words that have inspired generations.

Those words speak directly to the heart of what it means to be a police officer.

Allow me to share them with you.

It is not the critic who counts, not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or with a doer of deeds could have done them better.

The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly, who errs, who comes short again and again because there is no effort without error and shortcoming, but who does actually strive to do the deeds, who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions, who spends himself and a worthy cause, who at best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.

These words from Roosevelt's citizenship and a republic speech capture the essence of policing in a way few others can.

Every day, you, the officers in this room, step into the arena.

You answer the calls that others cannot or will not.

Your faces are marred.

Sorry.

You run towards danger when instinct tells most to run away.

Your faces are marred not just by the metaphorical dust and sweat, but by the long shifts, the emotional toll of tragedy, the scrutiny from those on the sidelines, and the weight of decisions made in split seconds under imaginable pressure.

Yet you strive valiantly.

You err because you are human and you learn, grow, and come back stronger.

There is no perfection in our line of work, only persistent effort and a worthy cause, the safety and well-being of our community.

And sometimes that effort looks like jumping into dark, freezing water in the nighttime in full uniform to try and save a life.

Sometimes it looks like stopping a crime before it happens, and sometimes it looks like alerting a family inside a burning home while you're off duty while they sleep peacefully inside.

Tonight as we promote those who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and readiness to take on greater responsibility, those who are starting out their young careers in a warwork uniform, and as we present awards to those who actions exemplify excellence, we honor exactly what Roosevelt described, those who dare greatly.

Promotions are not just about rank, they are recognition that you have spent yourselves in this worthy cause and are prepared to lead others into the arena.

Awards are not mere accolades, they are tributes to the triumphs of high achievement earned through risk, resilience, and relentless dedication.

To our promotees, new officers, and award recipients, you embody the man and woman in the arena.

Your place will never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.

You know both, and you keep showing up.

Thank you for daring greatly every single day.

With that spirit in mind, let us begin this evening's ceremony.

Thank you.

Good job.

Thank you, Colonel.

All right.

So at this point, I'd like to ask Warwick's Rhode Island State Senate delegation to come forward to recognize Captain Charlie Boiseau.

With us tonight is Senator Todd Padalano, also major at the Cranston Police Department, who is also a major at Cranston.

Senator Matthew LeMountain, Senator Mark McKenney, and Senator Peter Apollonio.

So if you can all come forward at this point, and I will turn the mic over to Senator Padalano.

Thank you.

Mayor Picosi, Chief Lima, Deputy Chief Sullivan.

It's not often that you have these types of ceremonies and they become symbolic and they're very important because most people, it's the stuff that you don't see.

You're gonna hear stories tonight that are gonna be tragic and the heroic actions of these officers.

They don't get the the they don't deserve, they don't get the designation and the recognition that they deserve.

And we're here tonight.

Uh I am here uh just to pass along greetings from the Rhode Island Senate, uh, President Lawson, along with Senator Le Mountain, Senator Apollonia, and Senator McKenney.

They are your senators here in in Warwick, and they are strong supporters.

I can tell you firsthand up at the State House of the Warwick Police Department and Law Enforcement.

But this citation tonight we're gonna give Captain Boiseau is a citation from the Senate, but it's also we consider it a life-saving award.

I will save the thunder and the dissertation of this award for later on in your program.

But I could tell you that it was due to his heroic actions in the city of Cranston on his way home from work where he noticed a house that was on fire and then quickly evacuated it.

And again, I'll save the details for later.

Um, but we here uh thank him for his service, his dedication, his commitment over 30 years in the walk, police department.

We also congratulate him and all of the rest of the recipients today.

And we'd like to present him with this citation from the Rhode Island Senate for his actions on the July 4th week, where he saved the life of a family.

Captain.

Thank you, Chief, for letting us speak.

I will just say one quick uh when you get on the police department at a young age, and uh after about 10 years, you all look around.

I see some firefighters here, and you say, I should have got on the police department.

I should I should have got on the fire department instead of the police department.

What are we doing here?

Well, I'll I'll save the save the story for the end, but um I'll just tell Captain Boiseau that the next time he goes to a fire, um, he won't have a chance to be a firefighter, but you can't put out a house fire with a garden hose.

Thank you, folks, and have a great night.

This is a symbolic moment with some memories for everyone.

Thank you.

All righty.

We will hear more about that situation later.

Um, at this time, we will recognize our officers who are promoted, elevated, or sworn in throughout the past year.

As I call up each of these officers, could those who will be doing the pinning of the badges of your loved ones please make their way to my right.

Uh, they will pin the new badges as I read the officer's biography.

I kindly ask that you hold your applause until the conclusion of the badge pinnings.

First up, Lieutenant Nelson Carrero.

Remember what I said.

Hold hold the applause.

No one's listening.

No one ever listens to me.

Um, hold the applause until the very end.

Nelson Carrero is a 25-year law enforcement veteran, having previously served five years with the Central Falls Police Department and is now in his 21st year with the Warwick Police Department.

He has served in the patrol division, community services division, and the prosecution division.

He was promoted to sergeant in 2022 and was assigned to third shift uh platoon division.

He was later transferred to the prosecution division.

During his tenure, Nelson has previously served as a field training officer, crisis negotiator, and as an instructor at the Warwick Police Academy.

He was the recipient of the 2024 Chiefs Award.

Nelson has a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from Rhode Island College and a master's degree from Salve Regina University.

Lieutenant Carrero has attended numerous trainings and seminars over the course of his career.

I would also like to personally thank him for his contributions over the years to the Warwick Police Athletic League, to the Warwick Police Explorer program, and to the Warwick Citizens Police Academy.

Lieutenant Carrero is being pinned by his two daughters, Brooklyn and Savannah.

His wife Carrie is out of state tonight on a business trip, but she is tuning in to the live stream broadcast thanks to Phil Carlucci, along with hundreds of thousands of other supporters.

Take your time and then feel free to take a nice photo.

Next up, Officer Nicholas Kutu.

Officer Kutu laterally transferred to the Warwick Police Department after previously serving a combined seven years with the West Greenwich Police Department and the North Kingstown Police Department.

Having been born and raised in Warwick, it has always been a dream of his to work for the city that raised him back in the friendly confines of Koesit.

Officer Kutu graduated from Bishop Hendrik in High School and earned a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from Keene State College.

Officer Kutu is the son of Pat and Roland Kutu.

Officer Kutu's father Roland is a retired West War police officer.

Officer Kutu is being pinned tonight by his girlfriend Nicole.

With Officer Kyle Delpreet come on up.

Officer Kyle Delpreet is a lateral transfer from North Smithfield PD with over seven years of service in the patrol division.

Kyle has successfully passed the FTO program for the Warwick PD and is currently assigned to the Patrol Division's Third Platoon.

Kyle is a graduate of the Rhode Island Municipal Police Academy class of 2018 Part 1, the Great Class of 130, and holds a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from Roger Williams University.

In his time as an officer in North Smithfield PD, Kyle has received various commendations for life saving and for his involvement in arrests involving narcotics and firearms.

Kyle is the son of Gloucester Chief of Police Joseph Delpreet and Gail Delpreet.

Kyle has three sisters, Lauren Jameson, Corey Delpreet, and Gillian Delpreet.

Officer Kyle Delpreet will be pinned by his father, Gloucester Police Chief Joseph Delpreet.

Next up, Officer Benjamin Reed.

Officer Benjamin Reed graduated the Rhode Island Municipal Police Academy in December of 2025.

Officer Reed holds a bachelor's degree in criminal justice with a minor in psychology and military studies from Norwich University, where he also commissioned into the United States Army.

He is currently a first lieutenant in the 126th Aviation Battalion, serving as a UH-60 Black Hawk pilot.

Officer Reed is a Coventry native, Go Naughty Oakers, and is the son of State Representative Earl Reed, who is also a retired Warwick Police Department Lieutenant.

Two lieutenants in the same family.

Imagine that.

Officer Reed will be pinned by his parents, Amy and Earl.

Elevation to the rank of detective.

Detective Louise, uh, Tyler Luis is a five-year veteran of the Warwick Police Department.

In that time, Detective Louise has served on all three patrol divisions before being transferred to the prosecution division.

In his most recent assignment in the prosecution division, Detective Louise handled a variety of tasks and handled an assorted caseload in each of the several different courts.

Detective Luis holds a bachelor's degree in business administration with a Sumakum Lati honors from Johnson of Wales University.

Detective Louise was transferred to the Detective Division earlier this month and assigned to the Financial Crimes Unit.

Detective Louise is joined tonight by his mother, Catherine Louise, grandmother Maureen Forge, and his sister Kessler, who will be pinning them.

All right, at this time, we will be presenting our annual awards to various officers and civilian employees.

The first set of awards will be the annual Chiefs Awards.

To start, I would like to call forward Colonel Lima to present tonight's first award.

So the first award will go to Officer Nate Gray.

Please step forward to receive the 2025 Officer of the Year Award.

You can hold your applause until the end as well.

Officer Nathaniel Gray is a five-year veteran of the War Police Department and is currently assigned to the First Platoon Uniform Patrol Division.

Since he began his career, Officer Gray has been a menace to those on the wrong side of the law.

He is always policing in a proactive manner with a high volume of traffic enforcement actions and arrests.

In 2025 alone, Officer Gray issued 684 traffic citations.

He is more active than the speed cameras.

And he has made 102 arrests.

That's more than I have in my career.

These enforcement numbers are truly remarkable and were of quality, not just quantity.

His arrest highlights this past year include drug manufacturing, firearms offenses, violent sex offenders, impaired motorists, and countless warrant arrests.

Officer Gray is a virtual encyclopedia for the purpose of identifying individuals in and around the city.

His peers will often check with him when they are true when they are trying to identify someone, whether the person is a suspect, witness, or person of interest.

Officers Gray's supervisors remarked that he comes to work every day with a positive attitude, genuine willingness to work hard and assist others.

Officer Gray is always willing to step up and help others or to volunteer for an assignment.

Officer Gray's work ethic reflects well upon the Warwick Police Department and sets a good example for his peers.

Officer Gray is always respectful to his peers, supervisors, and those he encounters in public.

Officer Gray, congratulations on being selected as the 2025 Officer of the Year.

Make sure you take your photo.

Detective Sergeant Che consistently demonstrates what it means to be both an effective manager and an outstanding leader, ensuring that every case assigned to his division is completed thoroughly, professionally, and to the highest possible standard.

As a supervisor, Detective Sergeant Che maintains close oversight of all investigations within his division, holding himself and his detectives accountable for quality work and attention to detail.

He ensures cases are properly managed from start to finish and takes pride in the success of his team.

While he could easily delegate from a distance, he routinely responds to scenes along with his detectives, actively participating in investigations and leading by example.

Detective Sergeant Che always works hard and is continually supervising and mentoring his detectives and other officers within the department.

He always makes himself available to stay late or return to work when the need presents itself.

This reliability is a great quality, especially in his current assignment.

Sergeant Che is respected by those that he works with and leads by example.

He sets the standard high for himself and consistently reaches that standard.

It is the same standard that he sets out to achieve within his peers and subordinates.

Sergeant Che embodies an ethical morality that is unwavering and necessary in law enforcement and reinforces that in his personal and work relationships.

Sergeant Che's commitment to excellence is something that he tries to instill in others, his patience, experience, and strong leadership values.

And he's also really funny.

He's always making me laugh.

Detective Sergeant Shea has proven his leadership within the department by taking the initiative of being the go-to guy for the extreme risk protection orders, ERPOS, as they're called, are comprehensive court petitions to seize firearms belonging to those who present a clear and immediate threat to themselves or others.

This process has been an emergent priority in recent years.

Detective Nate She has been at the forefront.

He has served as a member of the department's special weapons and tactics team for many years.

He is also closing out on a 23-year career with the Massachusetts Army National Guard, where he is a first sergeant.

Congratulations to Detective Sergeant Che on being selected as a 2025 supervisor of the year.

Would you please step forward?

Detective Thomas Green is a dedicated nine-year veteran of the Warwick Police Department whose professionalism, initiative, and technical expertise have made him an invaluable member of the agency.

In December of 2023, Detective Green was promoted to the rank of detective and formally assigned to the Financial Crimes Unit in March of 2024.

In 2025, Detective Green was assigned 49 cases, and which led to 10 arrest warrants that include shopliftings, fraud, and sexual assault.

Among his notable achievements, Detective Green developed a department wide database of known shoplifting suspects, updated daily and shared across all divisions.

This resource has significantly enhanced communication, intelligent sharing, and operational efficiency throughout the department.

While assigned to the Financial Crimes Unit, Detective Green frequently assists other divisions without being asked.

He is a team player and always willing to assist others.

Detective Green's professionalism, adaptability, and strong work ethic make him an invaluable resource to the department.

Detective Green is an active member of the Warwick Police Department dive team and honor guard.

He also volunteers his time performing car seat installations for the community.

Additionally, he is certified statewide Evoc emergency vehicle operations course instructor.

Detective Green has past experiences as a field training officer and also also served in the department's traffic division.

Detective Green is a graduate of last year's BCI School, a certified celebrate cell phone examiner, and has received additional instruction in video extraction, forensic video analysis, and cell phone call detail record or record CDR analysis.

Due to his broad experience and deep familiarity with multiple divisions within the Warwick Police Department, Detective Green routinely assists the traffic division, computer forensics, and the BCI division.

Detective Thomas Green exemplifies the core values of the Warwick Police Department, dedication, integrity, and service.

He consistently, uh his consistent performance, initiative, and willingness to go above and beyond make him highly deserving of recognition through this award.

Congratulations to Detective Thomas Green for being selected as a 2025 Detective of the Year.

I don't want to be in the back of every shop.

At this time, I would like to call forward police dispatcher Cassandra Cassie Johnson to receive the Chiefs Award for Civilian of the Year for 2025.

Police Dispatcher Cassandra Johnson is a veteran dispatcher with over 20 years of experience.

As a dispatcher, she consistently demonstrates exceptional professionalism, dedication, and service to both the public and officers she supports.

Dispatcher Cassandra Johnson performs her duties with calm efficiency, sound judgment, unwavering commitment.

When she is the first point of contact for citizens in crisis, her ability to remain composed, compassionate, and decisive has directly contributed to positive outcomes and on many occasions a safety, uh safety for both responders and the public.

Beyond her technical skill, Dispatcher Cassie is reliable, detail-oriented, and always willing to assist co-workers, whether by mentoring new dispatchers, taking on additional responsibilities, or ensuring continuity of operations during critical incidents.

Her work ethic and integrity set a standard for excellence within the communication center.

Dispatcher Cassie demonstrated exceptional professionalism, composure, and compassion while handling a particular call involving a male who had committed suicide.

From the moment the call was received, Dispatcher Cassandra Johnson remained calm and focused, quickly assessing the situation and gathering critical information while maintaining a supportive and empathetic tone with the caller.

Despite the emotional intensity of the incident, the dispatcher followed all the protocols precisely, ensured accurate and timely dispatch of responding units, and provided clear and appropriate instructions to the caller.

Throughout the incident, Dispatcher Cassie's ability to remain steady under extreme circumstance helped bring order to a traumatic situation and ensured that all necessary resources were deployed without delay.

Dispatcher Cassandra Johnson often works behind the scenes without public recognition, yet her contributions are vital to the success of the emergency operations and community safety.

When not actively dispatching, Dispatcher Johnson is also a great person to have in the building.

She is happy, upbeat, and is a favorite among her peers.

To put it plainly, Cassie, you're awesome, and we appreciate what you do.

Congratulations to Dispatcher Johnson on being awarded the 2025 Civilian of the Year Award.

Officer Jonathan Lee is a graduate of last year's first ever Warwick Police Academy.

Since graduating the Warwick Police Academy last June, Officer Lee successfully completed field training program and has been off to the races ever since.

He's the Alabama Slama.

Officer Lee is by far the most productive officer on his shift and has only been on solo patrol for just over four months.

From August 29th, 2025 to December 31st of 2025, Officer Lee has not taken a day off or called out sick.

He regularly signs up for enforcement details, arrives at work on time, and always has a positive attitude.

Between enforcement details and his activity on patrol, Officer Lee has over 430 citations, 239 E citations or E-tickets, 22 arrests, four warrants drawn, 39 offense reports, and 22 accident reports taken.

But how many directed patrols have you done?

Are you checking your schools and parks?

That was my favorite.

I rock the directed patrols.

All right, of the 22 arrests, that's why I'm in community police.

Of the 22 arrests, Officer Lee has made 11 of those were self-initiated.

Not only were they self-initiated arrests, but they were high-quality arrests to include two DUIs, three warrants, three for drug possessions, and two violations of no contact orders.

Lastly, Officer Lee completes his reports in a timely manner, and they are always well written.

Officer Lee's enthusiasm for the job and dedication to his coworkers and citizens of Warwick has not gone, not gone unnoticed.

Congratulations to Officer Lee for being chosen as a 2025 Warwick Police Department Rookie of the Year.

The next award will be for the community service officer of the year.

Will CSO Jeremy Jordan please step forward?

We are proud to recognize a volunteer whose service, dedication, and leadership truly represent the very best of the Warwick Police Department's community service officer program.

Community service officers serve as a vital link between the police department and the residents we serve.

They assist officers, support public safety operations, and help staff many of the community events that build trust and strengthen relationships throughout the city of Warwick.

Jeremy Jordan has exemplified that mission since he began serving as a CSO in 2011.

For more than a decade, Jeremy has given countless hours of his time to ensure the success of events such as National Night Out, the city's annual New Year's Eve event celebration, GASPY days, food drives, toy drives, and the Citizens Police Academy.

His consistent president presence at these events has helped connect our department with the community in meaningful and positive ways.

In recognition of his professionalism and leadership, Jeremy was promoted to CSO supervisor in 2024.

In this role, he mentors fellow volunteers, helps coordinate operations, and ensures the program continues to meet the high standards of the Warwick Police Department.

Beyond his CSO responsibilities, Jeremy also serves as president of the Warwick Police Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association and is active member of the fraternal order of police associates, further strengthening the partnership between the department and the community.

His professionalism, dependability, and positive attitude make him a trusted partner to our officers and a valued presence in our community.

Jeremy's service is driven not by recognition, but by a genuine desire to serve others and make a difference.

For his years of commitment, for his years of dedicated volunteer service, his leadership, and his unwavering commitment to the citizens of Warwick, it is our honor to present the Warwick Police Department Community Service Officer of the Year Award to Jeremy Jordan.

We will now move on to other awards.

Our next award will be the Warwick Police Department Top Shot Award.

Will Canine Officer Tim Lipka please step forward?

On October 25th of 2025, the Warwick Police Department held their first ever Chiefs Top Shot Competition.

This competition was open to all sworn personnel who wished to participate and was held at the police range.

The inaugural event was a great success.

The competition was comprised of two courses of fire.

The first was a modified static qualification, and the second was a dynamic timed course in which the competitor was required to move positioning multiple times during the live fire.

Officer Tim Lipka is the recipient of the Chiefs top uh of the Chiefs Top Shot Award after having placed first in the static qualification course and second in the dynamic event.

This placement earned him the overall top shot award.

Congratulations to Officer Tim Lipka.

I hope K9 hockey is going to give you a treat tonight.

You deserve it.

All right.

So the mayor's community service award of the year for 2025 would Mayor Picosi and Officer Frank Matarisi please step forward.

Officer Frank Matarisi is a three-year veteran of the Warwick Police Department.

Officer Matarisi previously served with the South Kingstown Police Department for five years in the Wyatt Detention Center, Wyatt detention facility for five years also.

Officer Matarisi has been nominated for the Mayor's Community Service Officer of the Year Award in recognition of his extraordinary commitment, leadership, and sustained service to both the Warwick community and the broader mission of service through volunteerism.

Officer Matarisi has become an indispensable champion for the Special Olympics of Rhode Island, consistently going above and beyond to serve the athletes, families, and volunteers who are part of this important organization.

He is widely recognized as a staple of the Special Olympics community, continuously volunteering at countless events throughout the year.

His work is not limited to attendance alone.

Officer Matarisi actively develops and organizes fundraising initiatives, most notably for me, the Heroes Pull, a first responder-driven tug of truck event that brought together teams from across the state to raise funds that are donated in full to Special Olympics Rhode Island.

I'm also looking forward to the torch run this May, and hopefully the snow will be melted at that point.

Officer Matarisi serves as co-director for the state Special Olympics Torch Run Committee, a role in which he leads, inspires, and mobilizes his peers to engage in year-round awareness and fundraising efforts.

He was also recognized by Special Olympics Rhode Island President and CEO Edwin Pacheco with a certificate of recognition for his dedicated commitment to the organization, an honor that underscores the impact of his ongoing contributions.

Officer Matarisi's commitment extends beyond Special Olympics.

Within the Warwick Police Department, he actively supports the community policing unit, even while fulfilling his responsibilities as second shift patrol officer.

He does this by participating in and supporting annual toy drives, food drives, coat drives, and other community outreach programs that uplift and assist residents throughout the year.

In addition to his local efforts, Officer Matarisi has represented Rhode Island at National Special Olympics events and conventions, sharing ideas that strengthen the law enforcement support network that benefit athletes nationwide.

His work exemplifies the highest ideal of community service, enhancing public safety while fostering inclusivity, dignity, and opportunity for individuals of all abilities.

Officer Frank Matarisi embodies the spirit of service, compassion, and leadership that this ward celebrates.

His ongoing commitment to the community outreach, volunteerism, and the empowerment of individuals with intellectual disabilities.

His and all those he serves.

Congratulations to Officer Frank Officer.

Next up is the Captain Michael P.

Ford Award for Distinguished Community Service for 2025.

Unfortunately, the recipients, the two ladies tonight for this award, neither one could be here, but I do believe it's important to uh to read this on their behalf.

So this would go out to Gene Mudo Kyle and Julianne Thornton.

The next award, Michael P.

Ford Memorial Award.

This award carries profound significance as it commemorates the life and legacy of Michael Ford, whose passion, kindness, and commitment to serving others left an indelible uh mark on our community and our department.

The second annual Michael Ford Award is given in his memory to an individual who exemplifies the spirit of service, whose efforts have brought a positive change and uplifted countless lives.

This year's recipients truly embody that spirit.

The Warwick Police Department is proud to announce that the recipients of the 2025 Michael Ford Award will be shared by two amazing people, Jean Mutal Kyle and Julianne Thornton.

Hopefully they can watch this on the uh broadcast.

Jean and Julianne are the kind of people every organization hopes to have, but few are lucky enough to rely on as often as we do.

Whenever there is a need, especially in the support in recent years of Michael Ford and Nicholas Donardo, they answer the call without hesitation.

Their commitment to fundraising and community support is constant, dependable, and genuine.

That dedication was on full display at a recent fundraiser in which the FOP needed organizational assistance to raise money for Officer Nick Donardo, who was dealing with a serious illness.

In short time, they organized a raffle during the fundraiser that was a major success.

Julianne also does outstanding work with both the FOPA and the CPAA, giving her time, energy, and leadership to strengthen multiple organizations and support our officers and their families.

Jean and Julianne don't seek recognition, but tonight's award is well deserved.

Their generosity, reliability, and commitment to this community makes a real difference, and we are grateful for everything they do.

So congratulations to Gene and Julianne and thank you for all that you do.

We're going to have a little certificate of appreciation.

Will retired officer Lou Pickering please step forward.

That's right, Lou.

Come on out.

No bagpipes this time.

The Warwick Police Department would like to honor retired Warwick Police Officer Lou Pickering with a certificate of appreciation for his support of his former department as a piper at various ceremonies of the years.

Officer Pickering retired in 2001 after a distinguished career with the Warwice Department.

Retired Officer Pickering's love vagpipes continued well into his retirement years.

Retired pickering officer Pickering is kind enough to volunteer his time and services to perform at various promotional ceremonies.

The ceremony or events where his performance would be enjoyed.

Officer Pickering's performance are always a welcome addition to our ceremonies, and we are grateful for his dedication.

Thank you and congratulations, retired officer Lou Pickering.

Tonight we're also going to give a shout out to retired inspector Christian Chris Matheson.

He's not here tonight.

He actually is getting recognized at another event for his induction into the Rhode Island Criminal Justice Hall of Fame.

This evening, uh, we'd like to recognize him as previously stated.

His induction is occurring this evening at the exact same time.

That's why he can't be here.

Imagine that, right?

Being that popular that you got two events at the same time.

Inspector Matheson Reteen, after an astounding 52 years of service.

He was a Navy veteran, founding member of the police department SWAT team, and also served on the state's bomb squad.

Inspector Matheson has trained countless police officers from throughout the state and beyond.

His legacy will live on well into the future.

Congratulations, Inspector Matheson, on your prestigious induction into the Rhode Island Criminal Justice Hall of Fame.

Big round of applause.

Which we referenced earlier, or they did.

On July 5th of 2025, at approximately 1115 p.m., Captain Boiseau was returning home in Cranston when he noticed a small fire originating from a trash can.

Recognizing the imminent danger, he immediately called 911 and began forcefully knocking on the door of the residence to alert the sleeping occupants.

When the initial attempts to make contact failed, he located a garden hose and continued his efforts to both notify the residents and suppress the fire.

Captain Boiseau was eventually able to wake up the homeowner, and together they attempted to extinguish extinguish the fire, which had by then spread to the garage and the side of the home.

Realizing the gravity of the situation, Captain Boiseau called 911 a second time and without hesitation entered the smoke-filled residence with the homeowner.

Their courageous actions led to the successful rescue of the homeowner's wife and three young children, all of whom were still inside as the fire rapidly spread.

Thanks to Captain Boiseau's situational awareness, decisive action, and extraordinary bravery, a tragedy, a tragedy was undoubtedly averted, and four lives were saved.

The fire resulted in significant structural damage to a portion of the home, but thanks to Captain Boiseau's actions, no injuries were reported.

Captain Boiseau's conduct exemplifies the highest ideals of the law enforcement profession.

His willingness to place himself in harm's way while off duty, and after the July 5th fireworks in Oakland Beach, speaks volumes about his character and commitment to public service.

Congratulations to Captain Charlie Boiseau.

Furthermore, please have officer, please come to the front.

On October 18th of 2025, these three officers report responded to an emergency call reporting a vehicle submerged in Apenog Cove with a possible occupant trapped inside.

Upon arrival, the officers observed not only or observed only the roof of the and the tail lights of the submerged Honda Civic approximately 100 feet from the shore.

After being informed by a witness that a person was seen inside the vehicle before it sank, the officers quickly determined that immediate action was necessary.

Without hesitation and understanding the extreme risk to their own safety, all three officers removed their duty gear and entered the dark, cold waters of the cove.

Officer Minocchio reached the vehicle first.

Despite limited visibility and rising water levels, he was able to open the passenger door, locate the unresponsive driver, and pull him from the submerged vehicle.

Officer Maloney provided a life ring and together with Officer Neely assisted in keeping the mail afloat, safely swimming him back to shore.

Upon reaching land, the officers and arriving Warwick Fire personnel lifted the mail from the water, where life-saving measures, including CPR, were immediately administered before his transport to Kent County Memorial Hospital.

This rapid and selfless response exemplifies courage, composure under pressure, and an unwavering commitment to preserving life.

The actions of Officer Maloney, Minochio, and Neely directly resulted in the successful removal of a trapped and unresponsive individual from a submerged vehicle.

A task that required both physical effort and a decisive action under dangerous circumstances.

The professionalism, bravery, and teamwork demonstrated by these officers reflect great credit upon themselves and the war police department.

Congrats, gentlemen.

You may now take your seat.

Now, I'm not sure if the WPD dive team has any openings at the moment, but I'd uh make sure to put that, add that to your resume.

Um, I'd also like to personally thank Officer Matt Maloney for all of his help with the Wark Powell boxing program over the last three months.

Almost every Tuesday and Thursday evening, quite often in his uniform, he's been showing up to hard knocks boxing and lending a hand, giving the kids some encouragement and helping improve their technique.

He also has taught me a thing or two about boxing, and I no longer float like a butterfly and sting like a mosquito.

So thank you very much, Officer Maloney.

All right, our next award is gonna be a second class award for Captain Stephanie Giblin.

Please report to the front.

On October 6th of 2025, at 0034 hours, that's 12:30 in the morning, 1234 in the morning.

Warwick police were contacted through a 911 line about a male suspect or male subject who was belligerent and in possession of a firearm.

The male was reported to be inside of his residence, which was occupied with additional subjects.

At 0045 hours, Captain Gibblin was able to establish communication with the mail and continued in a negotiating role.

Within the first hour, all subjects inside of the residence were able to safely exit.

Captain Gibblin remained on the phone with the male, gaining a rapport with him.

The male claimed to be off of his medication, made suicidal statements, and was suffering from paranoia.

Throughout the course of the five hours, Captain Giblin remained calm, professional, and dedicated to the objective of trying to get the mail to peacefully exit the residence.

Despite being, despite not being formally trained in crisis negotiation, Captain Giblin showed great proficiency in using active listening skills, utilizing effective hooks, and displaying empathy towards the male situation.

Captain Giblin also worked efficiently and effectively with the crisis negotiation team to receive direction and guidance and to retrieve necessary information pertinent to a WPD members on scene.

Although unable to persuade the male out of the house on his own, due to his unsteady and drug impaired mental condition, Captain Giblin was instrumental in keeping the male's demeanor calm, eliminating any irrational and harmful actions being made by him.

Congratulations, Captain Giblin.

A next second class award with Officer Michael Rosa and Detective Matthew Smith, please come up front.

On March 27th of 2025, Officer Rosa spoke with an elderly male at WPD headquarters regarding a fraud.

According to the mail, he had been approached several days earlier by an alleged contractor and believed that he was a victim of a fraud.

This alleged contractor advised the victim that he had observed cracks in his foundation and that he would be able to repair the damage for $4,000.

After digging a large trench around the victim's property, the suspect contractor advised him that he allegedly found more extensive damage, and that would cost $80,000 to cover the additional work.

After signing the contractor, after signing the contract, the victim inquired with his bank for a loan to pay this new cost.

Officer Rosa researched the name of the suspect contractor and his alleged company, learning that neither he nor his business are licensed in the state of Rhode Island.

Based on previous intelligence bulletins, Officer Rosa believed that this suspect may be associated with a group identified as the Irish Travelers who target and exploit the elderly.

Officer Rosa then spoke with Detective Matt Smith, who was assigned as a TFO with HSI.

Based on Officer Rose's investigation, the suspect male was detained on other charges.

This allowed Detective Smith time to further the investigation and the allegations of fraud.

On April 3rd, 2025, the suspect was arraigned in federal court on charges of wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud.

Detective Smith's investigation uncovered additional victims in the state.

Further, it is estimated that the suspect collected nearly 1.7 million dollars from other unsuspecting victims by means of the fraudulent schemes.

Both Detective Smith and Officer Rose's efforts led to the arrest and federal prosecution of the suspect, known as a member of the Irish Travelers Group, which targets the elderly.

Detective Smith actively investigated additional victims throughout the state and attempted to recover any of the suspect's funds, which may still have been accessible for seizure.

Furthermore, the outstanding teamwork, combined investigative skills, and decisive action of Officer Rosa and Detective Smith saved the victim in this case an additional $80,000.

Congratulations, gentlemen.

I don't know if the Irish travelers are going to invite you out for a pint at a pub in Dublin anytime soon, but uh that's great that you held them accountable.

Bad joke, bad joke.

All right.

At this point, we are going to recognize the cadre from the inaugural 2025 Warwick Police Academy.

Will the following personnel please step forward as I read your name?

And it's a long list.

Major Robert T.

Hart, Captain Matthew J.

Higgins, Captain Timothy A.

Kenyon, Captain Jedediah D.

Pino, Lieutenant Charles A.

Austin Jr., Lieutenant Nelson C.

Carrero, Lieutenant Gregory L.

Johnson, Lieutenant Christopher R.

Lowe, Lieutenant Gavin E.

McVay, Sergeant Jason P.

Broder, Sergeant Thomas J.

Duncan, Sergeant Christopher J.

Gillis, Sergeant Derek J.

Hagopian, Sergeant Aaron C.

K.

Sergeant Ryan B.

Lancaster, Sergeant Justin N.

Martin, Sergeant Matthew S.

Moretti, Sergeant Joshua P.

Meyer, Sergeant Nicholas A.

Ria, Sergeant Jeffrey B.

Toronto, Sergeant Timothy J.

Tavarez, Sergeant Jeffrey A.

Waldman, Sergeant John M.

Zaborski, Detective Adam C.

Arico, Detective Ben L.

Bratco, Detective Nicholas J.

DeLuca, Detective Chiara M.

Enos, Detective Thomas W.

Green, Detective Terrence R.

McMullen, Detective Matthew T.

Smith, Officer Connor R.

Beamus, Officer Evan P.

Brown, Officer Andrew D.

Distelhurst, Officer Kyle J.

Fitzsimmons, Officer Kevin P.

Grant Jr., Officer Michael M.

Harris, Officer Michael T.

Ishawood, Officer Jessica L.

Larson, Officer Timothy W.

Lipka, Officer Nicholas A.

Minocchio, Officer Jonathan M.

Reef, Officer Michael J.

Rosa II, Officer James W.

Wenneman, and Officer Ryan E.

Shibley.

Hey, that's me.

The idea put forward was to conduct our own post-certified police academy.

The buy-in from our personnel and external stakeholders was tremendous.

After intense planning and recruitment, the group of candidates began the Warwice Department or the Warwice Academy on February 24th of 2025.

On June 13th of 2025, 15 candidates were recognized in a graduation ceremony where they were sworn as sworn in as probationary patrol officers after having successfully completed the academy.

From concept to completion, this inaugural Warwick Police Academy would not have been possible if not for the commitment to planning and training and the dedication of all those involved in the process who are standing and came before you today.

Please extend a round of applause for these men and women who were instrumental in this whole process.

Only about an hour.

All right, so that concludes our awards for this evening.

As we close this ceremony, I would like to again thank everyone for their attendance and the importance that all of you play in the success of every one of our officers.

I would again like to congratulate all of those who are recognized this evening.

Father Marciano, will you please come back up to offer the closing benediction?

Before the final prayer, allow me, if you will, to join me in thanking Officer Sibley for his magnificent work as Master of Ceremonies.

Thank you, Ryan, for your work tonight.

It was excellent.

Moved it right along.

And I hope you don't mind if I ever need a break from the pulpit at St.

Kevin's Parish.

You're going to be invited to take over for the weekend.

I can assure you the pay is lousy, but the retirement plan is out of this world.

So thanks so much.

Let us pray.

Lord God, upon whom this nation was founded as we close these ceremonies.

We are grateful to you for these officers and citizens honored who have stood before us.

They've sworn their oath.

They've given their honor as they place themselves at the service of others.

Our city, state, and nation, except this kept safe because of them and those who serve with them.

Protect their steps, guide their actions, and keep them safe in their duties.

May they feel the power of our love, gratitude, and esteem each day.

Bless their good families and their loved ones who make so many sacrifices for us.

But most of all, Lord, when earthly duties end, bring them and all of us home to be with you.

Under you our God, forever and ever.

Amen.

Please remain standing as I call the honor guard to please come forward to retire the colors.

On behalf of the command staff and the Warwick Fraternal Order of Police, I would like to invite everyone to continue celebrating with us at the FOP Hall, located on Tanner Avenue.

Please feel free to come forward and take pictures with your loved ones.

Enjoy the rest of your evening and have a safe night.

Stay warm out there.

We did it.