40°
“Chief Fontneau has pursued a proactive and community-based approach to policing that has allowed the department to pinpoint issues before they become chronic crime problems," said Martin, who was sworn in as mayor this week. "I applaud him for his leadership of the Stamford Police Department."
Fontneau was named Police Officer of the Year after serving only two years in the department and was a multiple recipient of the United States Justice award for excellence. Under Fontneau’s command, the Stamford Police Department’s policing efforts have helped maintain the City of Stamford status as the safest city in New England and the second safest city in the Northeast, according to a press release from the city.
He took over as head of the department a year ago after Chief Robert Nivakoff retired.
In other appointments to his Cabinet, Martin has named Katherine Emmett to be director of legal affairs, Michael Handler to be director of administration and Michael Pollard to serve as chief of staff.
Martin also reached into the ranks of retired firefighters and named former Assistant Fire Chief Peter Brown to be the fire new chief. As part of that appointment, Martin announced that Thaddeus K. Jankowski will give up his duties as interim fire chief but remain as director of public safety.
Martin nominated Democrats Tim Abbazia, Robert Figueroa and Ralph Serafino and Republicans Milton Thomas and Cheryl Palmer to the Police Commission.
For the Fire Commission, Martin recommended Democrats Robert Perry, Frank Melzer and Dick Lyons, Republican Greg Lodato and Andrew Holmes, who is unaffiliated.
All appointments will be forwarded to the Board of Representatives for consideration and approval.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Stamford and receive free news updates.
