Mayor Sarno states, “Working with Sheriff Nick Cocchi and receiving raved reviews from the public, the city will continue with this unique and innovative partnership with the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department with dedicated Forest Park patrols under leadership of Police Superintendent Lawrence Akers. With an added second shift, HCSD will be patrolling Forest Park from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and the added second shift from 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. in marked HCSD cruisers. The Sheriff’s Department patrols in Forest Park will continue until February 2025. The HCSD deputies will report to Superintendent Akers.”
“I cannot thank Sheriff Cocchi enough for continuing this unique partnership. We are so appreciative of the continued support of Sheriff Cocchi’s community-based approach.” Mayor Sarno added, “I’d also like to extend my sincere thanks to labor union presidents Officer Joe Gentile and Captain Brian Keenan for their cooperative efforts in this joint venture. We have a beautiful park system, especially with our crown jewel, the Olmsted-designed Forest Park and we want to keep it that way – enjoyable for all families, who come from near and far.”
