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Date: 3/17/2022
CHICOPEE – Since former Police Chief William Jebb announced his retirement in February 2021, the city continues to undergo an extensive search for the Police Department’s new leader. Chicopee is now down to two candidates for the police chief position as the city prepares for the final stages of the interview process.
Mayor John Vieau revealed that the final candidates are Interim Police Chief Jeffery Gawron and Captain Patrick Major. The mayor shared that both candidates received their final assignments, which are due on March 14, before each will undergo a “structured interview process.”
“We need permanent leadership in the Police Department,” said Vieau in an interview with Reminder Publishing. The mayor will conduct the police chief search process alongside Chief of Staff Michael Pise, Hampden County Sheriff Nick Cocchi, Assistant Superintendent Alvin Morton and Human Resources Director Paul Winspear. The assembled team will evaluate the applicants’ assignments while also conducting final interviews.
Vieau stressed that completing the police chief search is an essential element in aiding the growing Police Department. Along with looking for new leadership, the Police Department expects to welcome 15 officers from the police academy over the coming months.
“Public safety is a paramount component of my administration…I want people in Chicopee to feel safe,” said Vieau.
Once the new officers join the department, the mayor shared that he hopes to enhance community policing throughout the city. Vieau aspires for park and watch and community walk-through assignments to establish a more prominent and connective dynamic between citizens and the Police Department.
The recent establishment of raises for patrolmen and police supervisors is also expected to play a role in retaining staff throughout the department, according to Vieau.
Illegal Dirt Bikes
The city and the Police Department also remain vigilant regarding activity surrounding illegal dirt bikes. Chicopee continues to work alongside Springfield and Holyoke in downsizing dirt bike activity, with Ward 7 City Councilor William Courchesne recently establishing reforms during City Council meetings to deter gas sales for unregistered dirt bikers and ban their presence from city property.
Vieau stressed that the task force will be ready to deal with increased dirt bike activity as warmer weather approaches. “It’s not going to be tolerated. We will not let people disrupt the quality of life here in Chicopee and Western Mass.,” said Vieau.
The mayor encourages citizens to text SOLVE (27437) to safely communicate tips about dirt bike activity.