Historic Number Of Police Officers Now In Westfield

WESTFIELD, NJ — The Westfield Police Department has reached its highest staffing level in town history after six new officers were sworn in this week.

Mayor Jeremy Berman administered the oath of office and presented shields to the officers during a ceremony held Tuesday, bringing the department's staffing level to 63 officers.

The new officers — Robert A. Pulidore III, Joseph M. Walsh, Vincent M. Powers, Salvatore A. Gallo, Zachary Bisignano and Ryan J. Hatzlhoffer — were appointed in late 2025 and recently completed the 134th Basic Course for Police Officers at the John H. Stamler Police Academy in Union County.

Following their graduation, the officers began the department's 16-week Field Training and Evaluation Program, where they will work alongside experienced officers before moving into regular assignments.

Two of the graduates also earned special recognition during their time at the academy.

Officer Joseph M. Walsh received the 200 Club of Union County Award, which is presented to the cadet with the highest combined grade point average in emergency vehicle operations, first responder training, firearms training and physical training.

Officer Salvatore A. Gallo received both the Officer Anthony F. Lordi Jr. Memorial Award for outstanding achievement in constitutional law and the Union County Police Chiefs Academic Achievement Award, which is presented to the recruit with the highest overall academic average.

In a social media post following the graduation ceremony, the Westfield Police Department encouraged residents to welcome the new officers as they begin their field training assignments throughout the community.

"If you see these new officers on the road with their field training officers, please welcome them to the community," the department said.