Annamaria Ceci

‘Good Work Can Be Overlooked’: Letters of Appreciation for NCPD

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The following letters of support for New Canaan Police officers were made public by Chief John DiFederico at the May 18 Police Commission meeting, held in Town Hall. ***

Officer Kelly Coughlin

Dear Chief DiFederico,

I am writing to extend my sincere gratitude to you and the New Canaan Police Department for the outstanding support provided during our recent missing person search on April 19, 2025. The deployment of your Drone Team with Officer Kelly Coughlin was instrumental in our search efforts. Her professionalism and expertise allowed us to locate the missing party in good health. The level of knowledge and commitment demonstrated by Officer Coughlin reflects positively on your agency.

News

Christopher Dewey Named Lt. Stephen W. Wood Memorial 2023 Officer of the Year

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An 11-year veteran of the New Canaan Police Department has been selected as the Lt. Stephen W. Wood Memorial 2023 Officer of the Year, officials say. Officer Christopher Dewey, a patrol division member who serves as assistant executive officer of the department’s Special Response Team, is “an invaluable asset to our officers,” according to a press release issued by NCPD. “His proactive utilization of these certifications, through the implementation of targeted training scenarios and exercises for our patrol officers, has significantly contributed to the enhancement of our department’s capabilities Officer Dewey consistently represents the department with dignity and respect, and takes an active role in our Honor Guard,” it said. Dewey is a field training officer and certified instructor in firearms, according to the press release. 

Created in 2014 and with Wood’s own son-in-law, Lt. Aaron LaTourette, as its inaugural recipient, the Officer of the Year Award honors and memorializes the late Wood “who was taken from us far too young,” the NCPD release said. 

“Nomination and selection for this award is the result of exceptional work, integrity, and overall service to our town and department,” the press release said. Dewey will receive the award at the department’s Annual Awards Ceremony in the spring.

Business

Local Bar and Restaurant Seeks to Amend P&Z Permit

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The Planning & Zoning Commission is set to weigh an application from a popular bar and restaurant downtown to amend its special permit. The White Buffalo, a cozy pub located down an alley on Elm Street next to Barvida, is seeking permission to use a courtyard outside its doors for dining and entertainment, according to a written request submitted on behalf of the eatery by one of its co-owners. “We have strived to provide a casual dining atmosphere in line with new Canaanites’ expectations and preferences,” Dave Tonkovich said in his request, received July 13 by P&Z. 

“The use of the courtyard outside of the White Buffalo has allowed us to provide a family-friendly environment for New Canaanites to dine alfresco,” he said. “The tables in the courtyard have been put up and taken down every day and there has not been any new structures added to the courtyard that are permanent. The courtyard is private property (owned by Fiona Sigg).

Annamaria Ceci

‘We Are Thankful for You’: Letters of Appreciation for New Canaan Police

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Police Chief John DiFederico presented the following letters of appreciation during the June 21 Police Commission meeting. ***

Lt. Carol Ogrinc, Officer Matthew Marzano and Officer Jeffrey Pollock

“Thank you so much for helping this panicked mom get her son out of his knotted seatbelt! I am so grateful for you and the NCPD! You are all amazing and we are thankful for you! Please enjoy these cookies!”

—Sherryl Mascarinas (June 15)

***

Officer Annamaria Ceci and Officer Kelly Coughlin

“Dear Chief DiFederico, Thank you very much for the Civilian Police Academy.