Two lieutenants and three sergeants were sworn in Thursday afternoon at Peabody City Hall during a ceremony attended by law enforcement officers, city councilors, and residents celebrating the occasion.
Students from Peabody Veterans Memorial High School’s AF-JROTC team opened the event with an honor march, followed by a speech from Mayor Ted Bettencourt.
“Being the son of a police officer, I have a deep understanding of how difficult and demanding your jobs are,” Bettencourt said. “Being a police officer becomes your life.”
Police Chief Thomas Griffin also spoke, emphasizing the importance of recognizing law enforcement officers for their dedication to ensuring the city’s safety.
“As you take on these new responsibilities, please remember the values that you brought here today—courage and steadfast commitment to doing what is right,” Griffin said. “Know that you have the full support of this police department and the community behind you.”
The swearing-in process followed, with each of the five officers called up individually to take an oath and receive personal recognition from Chief Griffin.
The first to be sworn in was Officer Javier Sanchez, a Marine Corps veteran who works at the Peabody District Court and provides bilingual assistance to the department. Griffin noted Sanchez’s volunteer work in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria.
Next was Officer Timothy Sullivan, who first met Griffin as an intern at the Salem Police Department. “He’s done an outstanding job, and he has a very bright future. He can help the department,” Griffin said.
Officer David Murphy, a 16-year veteran of the department, was sworn in next. Griffin highlighted Murphy’s long career, which included overcoming an injury in 2001 that required three major surgeries.
Officer Damien Mello, an 11-year veteran of the department, followed. Griffin commended Mello’s work training younger officers and his volunteer efforts with the honor guard. “He’s going to be an outstanding sergeant, and I look forward to working with him,” Griffin said.
The final officer sworn in was Joseph Lavoie, a former sergeant with the Essex County Sheriff’s Department. Griffin praised Lavoie’s leadership and mentorship of younger officers.
The ceremony also recognized civilians who acted heroically in emergency situations. Zachary Charette, Scott Decost, Robert Frost, and Parker Cook received the Lifesaving Award for their quick actions during a medical emergency at Northshore Mall, where they saved a man’s life.
Rabbi Rick Perlman, a police department chaplain and member of the critical incident stress management team, was presented with a plaque by Chief Griffin and Mayor Bettencourt for his contributions.
The event concluded with Mayor Bettencourt honoring the Peabody Knights of Columbus for their assistance to residents displaced by a fire at a Central Street apartment complex in November. The organization provided emergency shelter and facilitated clothing donations. Bettencourt presented members of the Knights of Columbus with a Citation of Community Recognition.
“Your support provided much-needed relief to those affected, offering clothing and shelter, as well as a new sense of hope for the future,” Bettencourt said. “Your contributions have made a tangible difference in the lives of many, and for that, we are truly grateful.”
