Manchester Police Promote 11-Year Vet to Sergeant

Manchester police have promoted an 11-year veteran of its force to the rank of sergeant as the department reorganizes in anticipation of a retirement in its Investigative Bureau. 

Richard Mazza, who has served as a patrolman and detective, was promoted to sergeant at a Tuesday ceremony at Manchester's Municipal Complex, said Capt. Lisa Parker in a statement.

"During Sgt. Mazza’s tenure with the Police Division, he received a total of 14 awards to include the Chief’s Award and the Exceptional Duty Award," Parker said. "In addition to receiving multiple awards, Sgt. Mazza received 18 positive performance notices which were issued to him by various supervisors."

Mazza will fill a need in the department as Sgt. James Sharkey moves into the position held by Investigative Bureau Sgt. Joseph Howell, who will retire at the end of this year, Parker said. 

A current member of the Ocean County Regional SWAT Team, Mazza also serves as a field training officer and a drug recognition expert, according to the captain. 

The recipient of numerous law enforcement training, Mazza hold an associate degree in Criminal Justice from Ocean County College, a Bachelor of Arts degree in Individualized Studies from Farleigh Dickinson University and currently is pursuing a master's degree in Administrative Science at that same institution, according to Parker. 

Chief of Police Brian Klimakowski praised Mazza for his achievements and thanked Mayor Michael Fressola and Business Administrator Elena Zsoldos for facilitating the promotion, Parker said.

Mazza's wife, parents, son and fellow officers were among those at the ceremony, Parker said.