On Dec. 17, the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association honored law enforcement professionals, presenting their annual awards for outstanding contributions across various categories of excellence.
Bristol’s Captain Julie Veader was among them, as the Female Officer of the Year.

Veader, the first female police officer in Bristol's history, has had a remarkable 27-year career marked by exceptional leadership and dedication. She has implemented innovative strategies, such as a cold case unit and enhanced investigative techniques, while also fostering a culture of mentorship and professional development within the department.

Originally from Belfast, Northern Ireland, Veader says that she always wanted to be a police officer. “I worked very hard to get where I am,” she said. “And I was blessed to have the opportunity to join a great department. I’m so glad I chose Bristol, I couldn’t be more thankful.”

As Bristol’s first female officer, she has had an opportunity to see some incredible changes over the length of her career. “Things have changed so much, back then, the other officers….they didn’t know what to make of you,” she said. When Veader joined the Police Academy, she was one of only 5 women. These days, she says that women make up about half of the candidates. Today, the Town of Bristol has 6 female active duty officers.

“Women today have such an accepted role in police work,” she said. “Women bring a needed, nurturing aspect to policing. Times have changed, and police are not this authoritarian presence they once were.”
Though Veader says that she was fortunate to have supportive male colleagues on the force from the beginning, she says there were still many days where she was afraid, as a woman, to speak out. Those days are over. “Today, we have a voice,” she said.

Veader admits to being completely humbled and honored by the award, with one regret. “I wish my father was here to see this, but he passed two years ago,” she said. “He would have been very proud.”

Additional recipients included Detective Michael Iacone, a 22-year veteran of the Cranston Police Department, The Community Officer of the Year award; Joe Terino, a steadfast supporter of the Chiefs Association, The Civilian Liaison of the Year Award; and Sergeant Dennis Smith of the Foster Police Department, The Distinguished Service Award. There were two Lifetime Achievement Award recipients: Retired Police Chief Richard S. Tamburini, in recognition of his remarkable 54 years of continuous service in law enforcement, the longest tenure in the state’s history; and Colonel Stephen McCartney, a distinguished law enforcement professional with nearly 50 years of service.

“This year’s award recipients have exemplified what it means to serve with excellence,” said Colonel Brad Connor, President of the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association and Warwick’s Chief of Police. “Their achievements highlight the vital role that law enforcement plays in fostering safe and connected communities while inspiring their peers to follow their lead in making a difference.”