2 Austintown officers receive promotions

The officers each have more than eight years’ experience on the police force.

STAFF REPORT

AUSTINTOWN — Two of the township’s finest were promoted and sworn in during Monday night’s trustees’ meeting.

Tom Collins was promoted from sergeant to lieutenant and Shawn Pezzuolo from patrolman to sergeant.

Police Chief Robert Gavalier said the officers had to take a three-part evaluation test.

Collins, who has been with the department full time since 1995, was the best of three who competed for the lieutenant’s spot. Pezzuolo, who has been full time since 2000, went up against five others for the sergeant’s rank.

“These officers came out on top,” he said. “Congratulations to them, and good luck.”

Trustee David Ditzler said he is proud of both officers for their accomplishments.

“I know you guys have put a lot of time in on the force,” he said. “And it always bides well when so many of your colleagues show up.”

Trustee Bo Pritchard said he is glad to see officers such as Collins and Pezzuolo receive promotions.

“I appreciate the fact that you guys have and will continue to provide leadership down there,” he said. “I think our police department is probably one of the best in the state of Ohio.”

Pritchard said both men have been assets to the department over the years.

“It’s a big responsibility and great statement of how you’ve dedicated yourselves to this police department,” he said.