Bridgeport – The Bridgeport Police Department this week promoted eighteen officers to higher rank at a ceremony held at Bridgeport City Hall Annex.  The officers were sworn into their new positions by Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim, accompanied by Police Chief Joseph Gaudett.

“These outstanding officers represent the highest level of professionalism and put their lives on the line to keep Bridgeport residents safe day in and day out,” said Mayor Ganim.  “I am very proud to promote our officers to higher rank.  You have earned all the accolades, and your hard work has paid off.  You truly are Bridgeport’s finest!”

Mayor Ganim also announced that the city has committed to hiring 100 new police officers to fill out the ranks of the department.  A new class of recruits will start on March 1, 2016.

Bridgeport Police Chief Gaudett said, “I really would like to thank Mayor Ganim for authorizing these promotions to our fine officers and for the commitment to growing the size of the police department.  Everyone being promoted this week deserves hearty congratulations!”

The officers promoted this week are:

Promoted to the Rank of Captain:

Lieutenant Brian Fitzgerald

Lieutenant  Mark Straubel

Lieutenant Steven Lougal

Lieutenant Rebeca Garcia

Promoted to the Rank of Lieutenant:

Sergeant John Gale

Sergeant Thomas Minar

Sergeant Nancy O’Donnell

Sergeant Vincent Ingrassia

Promoted to the Rank of Sergeant:

Detective John Burke

Officer Christine Burns

Officer Joaquim DeBarros

Officer James Ivanko

Promoted to the Rank of Detective:

Officer Jeremy Kelly

Officer Everton Walker

Officer Albert Palatiello

Officer Theodore Montagna

Officer Kenneth Fortes

Officer Barbara Gonzalez