Friday, February 28, 2014

Derby mayor: Police commissioners 'settling in'

Police commissioners being sworn in at Derby City Hall by former state Rep. Vincent Tonucci, right. Pictured from left: Thomas E. DeGennaro, Denise A. Bottone, John Mastrianni, Sr. / Contributed photo



DERBY - It’s been nearly two months since residents Thomas E. DeGennaro, John Mastrianni, Sr., and Denise A. Bottone, were sworn in to office as the city's new police commissioners.
Mayor Anita Dugatto appointed the commissioners in accordance with Derby’s city charter.

Dugatto said in a release: “The focus of our Board of Police Commissioners, in partnership with Derby’s outstanding police force, is to protect our neighborhoods and those that live, work, and play in them. We should strive to create a climate of mutual trust and respect for our laws, and for our officers, who are dedicated to enforcing them.”

During the swearing-in ceremony Jan. 6, Dugatto said each commissioner is uniquely qualified for the job.
“Our new commissioners are committed to partnering with Derby’s police force to protect our neighborhoods," she said.
"Their combined experience will allow them to represent the interests of our city, its citizens, and our police force from many points of view.  I am confident they will make decisions with fairness, openness, and a consideration for those they serve.”

Commissioner Thomas E. DeGennaro, who currently serves as Chairman of the Board of Police Commissioners, was born and raised in Derby, dedicating his career to law enforcement.

DeGennaro joined the Derby Police Department in 1976 and held numerous supervisory positions. After 12 years of police service, he was appointed to the Division of Criminal Justice for the State of Connecticut, Office of the Chief State’s Attorney.
During his 16 years at the Chief State’s Attorney’s Office, he held the rank of Supervisory Inspector and supervised five specialized investigative units.
DeGennaro participated in and directed numerous high profile investigations on organized crime, political corruption, public integrity, white-collar crime, and grand juries. Upon his retirement, DeGennaro was honored by the State of Connecticut for his dedication and efforts to raise the standards of excellence in the Division of Criminal Justice and for his service to the citizens of the State of Connecticut.

Commissioner John Mastrianni, Sr. is also a lifelong resident of Derby and is currently an adjunct instructor of computer science, project and operations management, and engineering economics at the University of New Haven. 
He earned a master’s degree in business administration fom UNH and has worked as a science teacher, production planner, systems analyst, and IT manager in several Connecticut corporations over a 45-year career. 
Mastrianni said, “I emphasize software applications in criminal justice in the computer science course I teach.  I also have experience in cost-benefit analysis, project management, and conflict resolution. “

When asked what he would like to accomplish as a police commissioner, Mastrianni responded, “I am interested in improving communications between the community and the Derby Police Department, as well as coordinating new community programs to facilitate cooperation, crime reduction, and community pride in Derby.
"I am also looking forward to assisting the Chief of Police in evaluating the effectiveness of our efforts to reduce crime and victimization.”

Commissioner Denise Bottone has experience in local government,  having previously served on Derby’s Board of Education.
Bottone grew up in Agawam, Mass. and she moved to Derby in 1995. A working mother, Bottone understands the needs and concerns of today’s modern family.
“I am a fair person with an open mind and will do my best to make decisions in the best interest of the city,” says Bottone.

The Derby Police Commission is a civilian oversight board for the Derby Police Department.
The Commission meets on the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m., unless otherwise noted.

Meetings are held at Derby City Hall, Joan Williamson Aldermanic Chambers, 1 Elizabeth St.


This post is taken from a press release from the mayor's office.


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