STAMFORD, CT – Mayor David Martin was joined by Director of Public Safety Ted Jankowski and Police Chief Jon Fontneau as he administered the oath of office to a diverse group of new recruits at the Government Center. The new police officers are headed to the police academy where they will complete the State’s basic training program over the next 26 weeks.

“Public safety is a key to our city’s continued success. Keeping crime rates low is a priority for me and my administration,” said Mayor Martin. “This is not an easy time to be a police officer, and in a city as large as Stamford, they face many challenges. These new officers are joining our dedicated and exceptional police force, who provide for the safety of Stamford residents day in and day out. Thanks to the efforts of the Stamford Police Department our city continues to be the safest city in New England.”

These nine recruits are the second group of police officers to be sworn in this year. Their hiring brings the number of Stamford Police Officers to 284, the highest Stamford has had in nearly a decade.

Director Jankowski stated, “Whether it’s solving a crime, protecting citizens from danger, or working with the community, Stamford Police Officers selflessly put their lives on the line every day with courage, dignity and excellence. These new recruits will follow in the footsteps of the brave men and women who came before them in protecting the residents of Stamford.”

Chief Fontneau stated, “These recruits, each of who stood out among others, join the Stamford Police Department, a family of the most professional, dedicated and courageous Police Officers in the nation. Hiring these recruits shows that Mayor Martin supports the department’s commitment for our collaborative, cooperative and interactive community policing philosophy. Strengthening community relations and community policing is essential for public safety and for making a difference in every neighborhood in our city.”