Police Chief Leon Krolikowski presented the following letters of appreciation for officers to the Police Commission during the appointed body’s June and July meetings.
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Officer Nicole Vartuli
“Nice work Nicole! Thank for moving this initiative forward.”
—Leon Krolikowski (July 5), in reference to the “Stuffed Animals for Cruisers” effort, where individually wrapped stuffed animals are kept in each patrol cruiser for distribution to young children, those with special needs or for outreach when responding to calls or on routine patrol.
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Officer Matt Blank
“Sergeant O’Sullivan, Reaching out to let you know about our amazing experience with Officer Blank. Our family originally met Officer Blank several months ago when on a tour of the NC Police Station, offers to NC Newcomers families. Officer Blank left such a positive impression on my then 4-year-old son, as well as the rest of our family. As a follow-up, I reached out to Officer Blank directly to ask if by chance he might consider coming to be the guest of honor at my son’s birthday party. Not only was Officer Blank enthusiastic about the ask, he made it happen (and many thanks to you for the support!). This past weekend, he surprised my so and his preschool friends at our home and arrived to wish him a Happy Birthday. Officer Blank was kind, patient and attentive to the kids as he talked to them about safety and being a police officer. He took time to answer every question, let the kids check out the squad car and was genuinely interested in being part of the experience — even bringing something for the kids to enjoy. The children were in awe and the parents equally impressed. Officer Blank not only takes his job seriously, but is such a positive role model for the children to look up to. The experience helped create a true sense of community with the New Canaan Police Department. While I’m sure you are already Asare of what an asset Officer Blank is for the New Canaan community, I wanted to further underscore that point. Not only did he take time away from his own family on his day off to come and spend part of his Sunday with ours, his generosity, interest and professionalism were evident as to the type of person he is. Sometimes its the small things that mean the most and this past Sunday his small act of kindness made a lifetime memory for my son. The town of New Canaan is lucky to have him.”
—Kirsten Hunt (June 15)
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Officer Kelly Coughlin
“Great job Kelly! It is great to have a group of officers willing to give their time to such a positive cause. And thank you especially for organizing these events and volunteering your time; that is very admirable.”
—Capt. Andrew Walsh (June 14), in reference to several NCPD officers participating in the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Connecticut, including Sgt. Mitchell, Officer Lopez, Officer Gibson, Officer Clark, Officer Schinella and Officer Vincenzi.
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Officers Roberto Lopez, Nicole Vartuli, Kelly Coughlin, Matt Blank and Annamaria Ceci
“Chief, The Dunk-a-Cop fundraiser for Special Olympics that occurred during Caffeine and Carburetors was a success. We were able to raise over $1,800 for a great cause and share laughs with the public in attendance. We would not have been able to run this event without the New Canaan Fire Department who came out to fill up the tank early in the morning. Officer Vartuli was a uniformed presence during the event and Officer Coughlin stopped by in between answering cals for service during her shift. They helped collect donations and draw in the crowd. I would especially like to thank Officers Blank and Ceci who volunteered their time off not only to interact with the public, but to take time getting dunked in the tank with me. Everyone represented the New Canaan Police Department with the utmost professionalism and friendly demeanor.”
—Officer Roberto Lopez (May 22)
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Capt. Andrew Walsh, Lt. Carol Ogrinc and Officers Jeff Deak and Sebastian Obando
“I would like to take a moment to thank you all for your assistance with the Peer Interview component of our RTS process on April 11-12, 2022. The Peer Interview phase of our testing process is one of the most important, as it narrows down our selection of candidates to a small group. In addition, it not only allows us to get to know one of our potential future officers; it Las gives that individual a chance to get to know our agency. You all handled that task with integrity and professionalism. Each one of you provided valuable input regarding the candidates that interviewed that evening. Thanks to your help, we were able to identify a solid group of candidates, two of whom are now members of our department. Your contributions made the selection process run smoothly and efficiently. Most importantly, you all represented our department in a proud and professional manner. Again, you have my sincere appreciation for your assistance.”
—Sgt. Brian Mitchell (June 9)