Braintree Promotes Multiple Police Officers

News release from Town of Braintree.

BRAINTREE, MA — Mayor Charles C. Kokoros has proudly announced the appointment of Detective Lieutenant Michael Moschella to the rank of Deputy Police Chief, Sergeant Brian Cohoon to the rank of Lieutenant, and Detective James Peters to the rank of Sergeant.

Deputy Chief Michael Moschella, with a career spanning over two decades, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Joining the force in November 1996, he ascended through the ranks, being promoted to sergeant in October 2005 and lieutenant in October 2008. With a Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration from Western New England College, he combines his theoretical expertise with extensive practical experience, having served as a Detective, Arson Investigator, Motorcycle Officer, and Patrol Supervisor during his career.

His expertise extends to investigations and command-level leadership, and he has received numerous commendations and awards from the Braintree Police Department. In 2020, he earned national recognition with the U.S. Department of Justice Award for Outstanding Collaboration.

A lifelong Braintree resident, Deputy Chief Moschella's dedication extends beyond his police work, as he actively engages in civic activities. His promotion signifies a new chapter in his career, where his skills and passion will undoubtedly continue to benefit the Braintree community.

With an exceptional 38-year career dedicated to the Town of Braintree, Lieutenant Cohoon has consistently demonstrated a steadfast devotion to the community.

Lieutenant Cohoon's career highlights include earning a bachelor's degree in criminal justice and obtaining a Graduate Certificate in Crisis Response and Behavioral Health, underlining his dedication to continuous learning and professional development. Throughout his remarkable journey, he has held various pivotal roles, such as K9 Officer, Detective, SWAT Operator, Narcotics Detective, Task Force Officer, Training Sergeant, and Firearms Instructor, showcasing his versatility and adaptability.

His career is adorned with distinguished accolades, including the prestigious 2-time George L. Hanna Memorial Award for Bravery, 2-Time Robert P. Dana Award for Distinguished Service, and 2-Time U.S. Department of Justice FBI Award for Investigative Efforts. Lieutenant Cohoon has also received over 30 commendations from the Braintree Police Department, reflecting his outstanding contributions to the force.

Lieutenant Cohoon's leadership is apparent through his efforts in commanding the Family Services Unit. In this role, he supervised the Crisis Intervention and Co-Response model and played a pivotal role in the development of the Crisis Intervention Training HUB through the Department of Mental Health, further underscoring his dedication to addressing vital community needs.

Lieutenant Cohoon's promotion heralds a new chapter in his exceptional career, where his wealth of experience and steadfast dedication to public safety will continue to enrich and safeguard the Braintree community.

With a 15-year career in law enforcement, Sergeant James Peters has consistently exhibited his commitment and outstanding performance since joining the Braintree Police Department in 2012.
Sergeant Peters began his policing journey in 2009 as a Hudson Police Officer before transitioning to the Braintree Police Department. He possesses a bachelor's degree in justice studies from Arizona State University.

Notably, Sergeant Peters has excelled in narcotics investigations, serving as a Detective in the Braintree Police Drug Control Unit, and a member of the South Shore Drug Task Force. His expertise extends to the federal level, where he has served as a Task Force Officer with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration since 2017 with the Federal Bureau of Investigations from 2016 to 2017.

Throughout his career, Sergeant Peters has received numerous awards, commendations, and citations, including 12 separate awards from the New England Narcotics Officer Association for excellence in drug investigations spanning from 2015 to 2022. In 2017, he was honored with the Robert P. Dana Award in Quincy District Court, and his outstanding contributions led to him being named DEA's Task Force Officer of the Year for Massachusetts in 2019. His role as an expert witness in Drug Investigations further underscores his extensive knowledge and experience in this critical field.

Sergeant Peters' promotion signifies a new chapter in his career, where his extensive experience, expertise, and dedication will continue to serve the Braintree community with distinction.

"I take great pride and confidence in recognizing the exceptional careers of these dedicated officers. Their unwavering commitment to our community and the depth of their experience serve as a testament to the values upheld by the Braintree Police Department. As they ascend to new roles, I am confident that they will continue to exemplify the highest standards of leadership, accountability, and service to our town. Congratulations to Deputy Chief Michael Moschella, Lieutenant Brian Cohoon, and Sergeant James Peters on their well-deserved promotions."

-Charles C. Kokoros, Mayor of Braintree

"Today we celebrate the dedication, commitment, and long-time service of these officers as they rise to new ranks. It's vital for the organization that we continue to tap into the wealth of experience, leadership, and accountability found within our ranks. Each of these leaders will assist us in fostering growth and development in our police department for many years to come."

-Chief Tim Cohoon