BELLEVILLE, NJ – August 28, 2023 – A joint ceremony to mark promotions in the Belleville police and fire departments was a celebration of those who work hard each day to keep the township residents and visitors safe and secure.

The nine members of the police department and eight members of the fire department who were receiving promotions were greeted with rousing applause, hugs and smiles from residents, friends and family members at a recent ceremony.

“Belleville is proud of these brave first responders who have dedicated their lives to safeguarding our communities,” said Township Manager Anthony Iacono. “We must never lose sight of their commitment, dedication and acts of heroism, no matter how small or great.”

Police Chief Mark Minichini announced that Pasquale Complitano has been promoted to captain; Matthew Dox, Cheryl Lopez and Gary Devito have been promoted to lieutenant; and Anthony Damico, Andy Jimenez, Michael Povinelli, Steven Plumer and Justin Versprill have been promoted to sergeant.

Fire Chief John Olivieri announced that William Hands, Steven Salzer, Brian Salmon, Francis Alfano and Jose Perez have been promoted to battalion chief; and Tyler Quarantiello, Carl Piscatowski and Joseph Lunelli have been promoted to lieutenant.

“These promotions are well-earned,” Minichini said. “The members of the police and fire departments whose promotions were recognized at this ceremony have conducted themselves with the utmost professionalism and demonstrated an uncommon dedication to Belleville.”

In addition to the promotions, six new Belleville firefighters were sworn in during the ceremony.

Olivieri said that Vincent Agosta, Brian Antonio, Andrew Brenneman, Anthony Cifelli, Zaid Hassen and Nicholas Marques are joining a department that is close-knit and ever-vigilant.

“We welcome these new recruits into what really is a family,” Olivieri said. “We look out for one another while we are looking out for the people of Belleville.”

The ranks of the police department will soon be growing, as well. Iacono pointed out that 10 recruits are undergoing training at Essex County’s police training academy.