Two Newport Officers Promoted to Sergeant

Friends, family and colleagues of Joseph C. Carroll and Robert M. Salter gathered together recently to celebrate their promotions to the rank of sergeant.

Both officers were sworn in as Newport police officers within months of each other in 2000. Since then, each has earned numerous awards and commendations for their service, whether it has been out on the street as a uniformed patrol officer or as members of the Honor Guard and specially trained teams.

Carroll graduated from the municipal police academy in March of 2000 and was sworn in as a Newport officer days later. Since then, he has served in the Uniform Patrol Division, the Special Response Team, Bicycle Patrol, Honor Guard and as a motorcycle officer.

He has also served as a police bicycle instructor and firearms instructor and armorer.

During his career, he’s earned four letters of commendation, 18 letters of Job Well Done, a Meritorious Service Award, a Chief’s Award and two Benevolent Wards.

Salter graduated from the academy in June of 2000 and was sworn in in July.

He has served as a uniformed officer, field training officer, community police officer and on the Honor Guard. In addition, he has served on the Special Response Team and the Weapons of Mass Destruction Tactical Team.

Salter has accumulated 20 letters of commendation, 9 letters of Job Well Done, a Meritorious Service Award, six Chief’s Awards and was named Officer of the Year in 2008.

Newport Police Chief Gary T. Silva offered remarks before both officers were administered the Oath of Police Sergeant by City Clerk Laura Swistak.

And both men felt immense pride and appreciation as family members pinned new badges to their uniforms.

Carroll’s wife, Gianna Carroll; and Salter’s parents, Janice and Joseph Salter, had the honor of pinning the badges.

Father Frank O’Loughlin, police chaplain, led the invocation and benediction.

Congrats to all!