NEW ROCHELLE, NY (May 14, 2025) — The New Rochelle Police Department held its annual Memorial and Awards Ceremony on Tuesday, May 14, at the Greentree Country Club, honoring officers who died in the line of duty and recognizing the distinguished service of current members.
City and police officials, alongside families, friends, and community leaders, gathered to pay tribute. The ceremony highlighted the courage and commitment of the department’s personnel, with Commissioner Robert Gazzola stating, “During this annual ceremony we honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, and celebrate those who serve the department with distinction. Their courage and commitment deserve our respect and gratitude.”
Detective Adalberto Aguilar was named Police Officer of the Year, while Detective Jon Bulfamante received the New Rochelle Chamber of Commerce Investigator of the Year Award. Community Service Officer Latoya White was honored as Civilian Employee of the Year, and Lieutenant Edward Hayes earned the Community Engagement and Outreach Award.
Other notable awards included the Arthur Luce Klein Award to Police Officer Christian Gonzalez and Police Officer Leticia Lua, and the Empress Ambulance Lifesaving Award to Police Specialist John Care. The Police Commissioner’s Award was presented to Detective Anthony Mirabile, Police Officer Christian Gonzalez, Police Officer Leticia Lua, and Police Officer Tina Morzello.
Multiple officers, including Detective Lieutenant Brian Fagan, Detective Michael Nader, and Police Officer Fayaz Mahmud, received Class C Citations, Commendation Awards, Lifesaving Awards, and Unit Citations for their exemplary service. Perfect Attendance Awards, ranging from one to 20 years, were also presented, with Lieutenant Edward Hayes recognized for 20 years of flawless attendance.
The ceremony also honored community members, with Mr. Gabriel Alvaraez and Ms. Sofia Wylie named Citizens of the Year. The Police Memorial Essay Award recognized young students, with Savir Suri of Davis Elementary School taking first place, followed by Ciro Salerno of Davis Elementary School in second, and Azul Gil of Columbus Elementary School in third.
The event underscored the department’s commitment to both remembrance and recognition, celebrating the dedication of its members and the community they serve.
This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.
