Two Police Officers Promoted At Town Council Ceremony

In a small police department, promotions can be rare, but the recent retirement of East Greenwich Police Lt. Jim Poccia created an opening. At the Town Council meeting Monday night, former Sergeant Stanley "Skip" Cirella was promoted to lieutenant rank and former Patrolman Robert Siple moved into the sergeant position.

Council Chambers was full for the promotion ceremony, which took place at the beginning of . More than 15 EG police officers were on hand, as were family members for both honorees.

Cirella has been with the department for 18 years; Poccia for 17. Both hold leadership positions in the police union.

While promotions may be rare, according to Police Chief Tom Coyle, there may be more movement in the department in the next year.

"We are anticipating maybe more turnover depending on what happens with the budget," Coyle said.

When Lt. Jimmy Poucia retired.

Because we've got to fill that lieutenant