Letter to the Editor: Cheshire Officers Provided Secure Environment

Letter to the Editor:

In a recent article in the New Haven Register, I was incorrectly identified me as being present at Cheshire High School on Tuesday, October 2, 2012 in response to an incident. Although I was aware of the situation and was in contact with my staff, I was, in fact, out-of-state attending a professional conference.

I would like to take a moment to compliment the officers who were present and give credit where it is due. The Cheshire Police Department’s response was coordinated by Deputy Chief Joe Popovich who was the acting chief during my absence. The officers who were present at Cheshire High School at various times on Tuesday morning were:

• Captain Bob Vignola
• Officer Steve Jester
• Officer Jeff Falk
• Officer Kristian Johnson
• Officer Devin Flood 
• Officer Brian Schechter

Working with Superintendent Greg Florio, Principal Jeff Solan and the rest of the Cheshire High School staff, the officers sought to provide a safe and secure environment. Based on the kind words of Ms. Vellucci, I believe they succeeded.

The underlying incident remains under investigation. I encourage anyone with any information to contact Officer Lorin Webber who is the School Resource Officer at Cheshire High School. He can be reached by calling the Cheshire Police Department at telephone number 203-271-5500.

Neil Dryfe

Chief of Police, Cheshire Police Department