New Cop Sworn In, Supervisors Appointed

Madison has a new police officer, and the police department has been authorized to start interviewing candidates to hire another officer.

The governing body approved a resolution hiring Stephanie Corrao, a former Union City police officer, at its meeting on Monday, and also approved resolutions appointing two acting lieutenants and two acting sergeants.

Sgt. Joseph Cirella and Sgt. Dennis Lam were appointed acting lieutenants because they were the first and second candidates, respectively, on the existing lieutenant promotional examination list.

Detective Sean Plumstead and Patrolman Craig Perrelli were appointed acting sergeants because they were the first and second candidates, respectively, on the existing sergeant promotional examination list, the resolutions said.

The acting lieutenant and sergeant appointments were made because Acting Chief Darren Dachisen requested additional supervisory personnel to assist in the administrative operation of the Madison Police Department due to recent retirements.

The appointments come after the recent retirements of Chief John Trevena and Acting Chief Jerry Mantone, and the recent affirmation of a police contract arbitration award.

Corrao's first year is probationary and paid according to the police arbitration award a salary of $46,000, the resolution said.

Council President Jeannie Tsukamoto said the hiring brings the number of sworn officers to 26.

"This hiring is necessary for the police department’s day-to-day operations and the safety of our residents," she said. "As you probably remember, I’ve been advocating the hiring of an additional officer since earlier this year during our budget discussions. This additional officer is in our 2012 budget. I am very pleased to see that the hiring has finally become a reality after much delay. I thank the mayor, council and the administrators for their support."

Tsukamoto said the governing body looks forward to formally filling the vacancies of the chief, two lieutenants and two sergeants after it finalizes an ordinance formally outlining the process of police promotions, which is expected to be introduced at the Council's Nov. 5 meeting.