The New Canaan Police Department held a ceremony at Town Hall on Wednesday to mark the promotions of three of its officers—Lt. Aaron LaTourette, Sgt. Daniel Guilino, and Sgt. George Caponera.
Lt. Aaron LaTourette at a Sept. 27, 2023 promotion ceremony at Town Hall. Credit: Chandra Johnson Greene
Hosted by Chief John DiFederico, the ceremony was attended by the officers’ families, friends and fellow members of the police department. DiFederico said the ceremony was a chance to focus on the positive side of being a member of the NCPD.
“It’s great to celebrate our people,” he told the New Canaanite. “So often, the things that we deal with are so difficult and it’s nice to have an opportunity to have a happy moment together and to really celebrate the accomplishments and hard work that we do everyday.”
DiFederico also took some time at the end of the ceremony to remind the officers of the importance of their new leadership roles.
Sgt. Dan Gulino standing at right, at a Sept. 27, 2023 promotion ceremony at Town Hall. Credit: Chandra Johnson Greene
“You have the opportunity to make [a] significant impact on those under your command,” he said. “Continue to lead by example, mentor others, be a positive impact on those who serve under you and alongside you. Congratulations to you and may your new roles be filled with even greater accomplishments. We look forward to seeing how you take the lead in the department.”
LaTourette has been a member of the department since 2000 and has served as Sergeant, Patrol Officer, Field Training Officer, Dispatcher, Firearms Instructor, Police Patrol Rifle Instructor, Special Response Team Executive Officer and Team Leader. He also is a certified motorcycle officer and a member of the Honor Guard.
Sgt. George Caponera standing with family at right, at a Sept. 27, 2023 promotion ceremony at Town Hall. Credit: Chandra Johnson Greene
Throughout his career, LaTourette has earned several awards, including the Commissioners Physical Fitness Award, the Commissioners Firearms Award, The Perkin Award, MADDD awards, multiple Medical Service awards, Unit Citation awards, and was the recipient of the Stephen W. Wood Officer the Year Award in 2014.
Gulino has been a member of the department since 2010. Prior to joining the New Canaan Police Department, Sergeant Gulino was a Bridgeport, CT Police Officer. He has served in the department as Acting Lieutenant, Acting Sergeant, Dispatcher, bicycle patrol officer, field training officer, Project Lifesaver Project Manager, School Crossing Guard Trainer, Driver Improvement Instructor, and Pink Patch Project Coordinator.
Gulino has earned several awards including the Police Service Cross, two Meritorious Duty awards, a Unit Citation award, a Medical Service award, two AAA Traffic Safety Hero of the Year awards, and a Unit Citation.
Caponera has served with the since 2010, working as Patrol Officer, Dispatcher, Field Training Officer and Coordinator, and School Liaison Officer. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Delaware.
Caponera was awarded the 2015 Stephen W. Wood Officer of the Year Award, a Traffic Hero Safety Award, two Mothers Against Drunk Driving Awards, three Physical Fitness Awards and a Life Saving award.
All three officers are assigned to the Patrol Division.
Congratulations. Great job. Keep up the good work. Thanks Arun