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Poughkeepsie has bolstered its public safety forces by adding six new police officers and two firefighters. During a ceremony on Monday (September 8), five of the six new police recruits and both firefighters took their oaths of office. Among the new police officers, Brianne Colson and Melvin Cardona-Rivera transferred from the New York Police Department (NYPD). Cardona-Rivera, who has been working in Poughkeepsie for a week, expressed his satisfaction with the transition, saying, "So far – so good." The other four officers—Joseph Ditzio, Corey Badger, Daniel Salamone, and Nicholas Barbagallo—will begin their training at the Dutchess County Sheriff's Office Police Academy on September 15, with graduation set for February 26, 2026. Nicholas Barbagallo is the son of Mike Barbagallo, a well-known K9 handler in the city.
Police Chief Rich Wilson highlighted the importance of these new hires, stating that the addition brings the department's strength to 87 officers, a number not reached in recent years. After their graduation, the officers will undergo 90 days of field training before working independently by May 2026.
Acting Fire Chief Vincent Parise also welcomed the two new firefighters, James Boyles and Michael Ross, who will start their 22-week training at the Westchester Fire Academy. Their addition brings the city's career firefighter count to 53. Chief Parise thanked City Administrator Joe Donat for supporting the department's staffing needs, emphasizing that the new hires will help maintain safe working conditions.
According to Mid-Hudson News, these additions are crucial for addressing the city's public safety needs and ensuring adequate response capabilities.