EAST PROVIDENCE — The East Providence Police Department swore in eight new officers on Tuesday, May 5, outside of the East Providence police station as the command staff, members of the …
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EAST PROVIDENCE — The East Providence Police Department swore in eight new officers on Tuesday, May 5, outside of the East Providence police station as the command staff, members of the officers’ families and city officials looked on.
The swearing in ceremony was atypical this year as the officers, command staff and officials all wore masks and practiced social distancing as families watched the ceremony from their cars.
The recruits endured 15 weeks in the Rhode Island Municipal Police Training Academy before taking the oath of officers. It was the first graduating class since 2018.
“Although this graduation is far different than those in the past, it does not change the mission,” Chief William C. Nebus told the newly sworn officers. “Do not ruin what you have accomplished by losing sight of who you are when you change into this uniform.
“I place my trust in all of you …you have chosen to provide a service to the citizens of East Providence do not take this task lightly,” Nebus added. “Be proud of what you have accomplished so far as this is only the beginning get ready for the most rewarding career.”
Mayor Bob DaSilva swore in each of the eight officers and welcomed them into the city of East Providence family.
“It’s a journey, it’s a rewarding journey that will continue throughout your career,” the mayor told the officers. “It’s something that you should be very proud of – to wear the badge of the East Providence Police Department because it is one of the finest in the state if not the whole nation.”
The new EPPD officers are as follows:
Officer Stephen Ohsberg: Officer Ohsberg has always sought to serve others and make his family proud. His parents have been his greatest influence. While attending Norwich University, he became determined to make law enforcement his chosen career, graduating with a degree in Criminal Justice. Officer Ohsberg looks forward to serving the residents of East Providence and building a relationship with the community.
Officer Peter Taaffe: Officer Taaffe is one of six children and was raised in Central New York. He earned his associates degree from CCRI and has prior experience in security. He became a police officer to make a difference and is happy to get his chance in East Providence.
Officer Steven Dumond: Officer Dumond is from Seekonk and attended Southern New Hampshire University. Officer Dumond is from a law enforcement family.
Officer Radhames Familia: Officer Familia is from Providence. He attended the University of Rhode Island and is a combat veteran with the 101st Airborne Division. Officer Familia is also a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Officer Robert Fontaine: Officer Fontaine is from Seekonk. He earned his associates in Criminal Justice from Bristol Community College. His previous experience includes working as a correctional officer and working as a member of the RI Sheriff’s Department.
Officer Jake Gelsomino: Officer Gelsomino is proud to be the first in his family to become a police officer. He is from Barrington and earned a bachelor’s degree in Criminology from the University of Rhode Island.
Officer Joshua Johnson: Officer Johnson is from New Haven, Conn. He started his education at Post University, then transferred to Johnson & Wales University. Officer Johnson is an active member of the Rhode Island National Guard.
Officer Matthew Martins: Officer Martins is a resident of East Providence. He graduated from Wentworth Institute of Technology with a degree in computer networking. Officer Martins previously served as a dispatcher in Bristol.
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