On March 13, 2025, the Newark Police Department hosted a special ceremony to celebrate the promotion of one officer and recognize over 30 officers, civilian employees, and a community member for their significant contributions over the past year.

The event was held at the Courtyard by Marriott Newark-University of Delaware and brought together officers, civilian personnel, representatives from partner agencies, and members of the public. Mayor Jerry Clifton provided remarks honoring the dedication and achievements of those recognized.   Present for the ceremony were City Manager Tom Coleman, Chief of Police Mark Farrall, and representing the University of Delaware Police, Captain Mike Maier.

The promoted officer was:

• Corporal Kenneth Odom was promoted to the rank of Master Corporal

Chief Farrall administered the Oath of Office, officially marking Odom’s advancement. In a special moment, Odom’s son, pinned the Master Corporal badge on his father.

Awards conferred during the ceremony:

• Lions Club Officer of the Year: M/Cpl C. McKennon

• VFW Officer of the Year: Sgt. G. Micolucci               
• Newark Morning Rotary Club Public Service Award: Cpl. A. Mease and Cpl. Donte Faulk
• Knights of Columbus Officer of the Quarter Award, 2^nd Quarter: Sgt. G. Micolucci, M/Cpl J. Kendrick, and PFC R. Hultberg

• Knights of Columbus Officer of the Quarter Award, 3rd Quarter: M/Cpl D. Bystricky

• Knights of Columbus Officer of the Quarter Award, 4th Quarter: M/Cpl C. McKennon
• Life Saving Award: Cpl. N. Graber   
• Citation of Merit: M/Cpl C. McKennon, PO K. Conner, Civilian Robin Broomall

• Unit Citation: 
• Sgt. T. Maiura, Sgt. G. Micolucci, Sgt. A. Olicker, Sgt. B. Potocki, M/Cpl W. Anderson, M/Cpl W. Aston, M/Cpl D. Bystricky, M/Cpl J. Kendrick, M/Cpl. A. Golden, Cpl. P. Klein, Cpl. J. Roberts, Cpl. D. Velasquez, Cpl. R. Young, Cpl. R. Zappaterrini, Cpl. C. Spencer, Cpl. A. Vari, PFC R. Hultberg, PO A. Cook, PO E. Brown, PO A Lozano, CO II A. Vernon, CO N. Bollettiero,  and Ms. Melissa Pennachi

• DUI Enforcement Ribbon: M/Cpl C. McKennon and Cpl. C. Spencer

• Letter of Commendation: Sgt D. Saunders, M/Cpl. C. McKennon, Cpl D. Burgess, Cpl P. Klein, Cpl. J. Lee, Cpl A. Maiura, Cpl. J. Roberts, PO A. Cook, PO M. Tornetta

The Newark Police Department is proud to honor these individuals for their exceptional commitment and service to the community, with special thanks to all who attended, especially our Newark Police Chaplains, and to the Courtyard by Marriott for hosting us.