New Bedford Police Officers Honored at Promotions Ceremony

Three New Bedford patrol officers were promoted to the rank of sergeant at a formal recognition ceremony held at Keith Middle School on Tuesday.

Sgts. Mark Giammalvo, Annemarie Lefevre and Alan Faber were all “pinned” by family members before an assembled crowd.

New Bedford Police Chief Joseph Cordeiro praised the new police sergeants for their willingness to embrace change and accept the responsibility that comes with being a leader in the department.

“Without change, there is no progress,” Cordeiro said. "Going from a patrol officer to a sergeant is an enormous responsibility and one that requires you to be fair, firm and consistent. It is all worth it and you will appreciate the success with your team as you help people throughout the community. I am deeply proud of each of you.”

New patrol officers Andy Pereira, Vincent Peters, and Matthew Greathead were sworn in.

Cordeiro encouraged the new officers to lean on their new “friends and colleagues in the department” and assured them they would never be without support. “You are joining a department rich in history and tradition. We are grateful for you and we need you.”

Officers Marc Conley and Paul Pires were presented with the Chief’s Award. Cordeiro recognized them for their commitment to community policing and willingness to make a difference in the lives of others.

Pires, who is about to retire, has been with the department for 28 years. As a member of the traffic division, he managed a fleet of 120 vehicles. Cordeiro thanked Pires for his dedication to the department and said he has always gone “above and beyond.”

Officer Marc Conley “embraces the philosophy of community policing” and demonstrates daily that he “leads with his heart,” Cordeiro said.

New Bedford City Council President Joe Lopes commended the officers for “working hard to move the City of New Bedford forward.”