From the NHPD:
NEW HAVEN, CT — New Haven Police Department Assistant Chief Bertram N. Ettienne was honored with the 2026 Bereavement Care Network Community Service Award during BCN's Honoring the Journey, Toasting to the Future celebration.
The award recognizes Assistant Chief Ettienne's longstanding commitment to victims, families, and the New Haven community.
Assistant Chief Ettienne's connection to this work is deeply personal.
During his career with the New Haven Police Department, he served most notably as a homicide detective for over a decade, supervisor of the Homicide Unit & Major Crimes Unit, the OIC of the Investigative Services Division, & then the Assistant Chief of Investigations. He has dedicated years to investigating violent crime and supporting families during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
That commitment became even more personal in 2010, when Assistant Chief Ettienne lost his younger sister to gun violence. Following her homicide, he adopted and raised her two daughters alongside his own daughter. His personal experience with loss has further strengthened his dedication to serving victims of violence and the families left behind.
Bereavement Care Network, Inc. was established in New Haven in 2013 and provides support to families affected by homicide due to gun violence in the Greater New Haven community. BCN assists families with immediate needs, including funeral expenses, flowers, food, and other resources, while also providing ongoing support and counseling.
The New Haven Police Department congratulates Assistant Chief Bertram Ettienne on this well-deserved recognition and thanks Bereavement Care Network for honoring his years of service, compassion, and commitment to the families and communities we serve.
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
New Haven Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.