At a recent celebration, the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association honored law enforcement professionals, presenting their annual awards for outstanding contributions across various categories of excellence.

"This year’s honorees reflect the many ways individuals contribute to public safety and service," said Chief Thomas Oates III, President of the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association and Woonsocket Chief of Police. "Their efforts leave a lasting impact and serve as an inspiration to others who are dedicated to excellence in serving their communities."

The Community Officer of the Year award was presented to Sergeant Russell Brown, an 18-year veteran of the Warwick Police Department, who was recognized for his outstanding commitment to youth engagement and community policing. As a school resource officer and Executive Director of the Warwick Police Athletic League, Sergeant Brown revitalized PAL programming, introduced innovative peer mentoring initiatives, and secured federal grant funding to support at-risk youth. Even after returning to patrol following his promotion in 2024, he continues to dedicate his time to the community.

The Detective of the Year Award was given to Detective Lieutenant Douglas Cerce of the Smithfield Police Department. Detective Lieutenant Cerce was honored for his exceptional investigative leadership and service to the law enforcement community. A 26-year veteran, Lieutenant Cerce has spent over two decades in the detective division and currently serves as Assistant Detective Commander, overseeing complex investigations and mentoring fellow detectives. His expertise in technology-related crimes, leadership of the Rhode Island Detectives Association, and commitment to education and community outreach distinguish him as a leader in his field.

The Civilian Liaison of the Year Award was presented to Cara Cromwell, founder and principal of Cromwell Public Affairs, who was recognized for her exemplary service as a trusted communications partner to the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association. Through strategic advocacy, crisis communications expertise, and innovative public engagement, she has elevated the Association’s visibility, credibility, and impact statewide. Her work has strengthened relationships between law enforcement leadership, policymakers, and the public, setting a new standard for professional communications support.

The Distinguished Service Award was received by both Lieutenant Christopher Zarrella of the Rhode Island State Police and Father Joseph Escobar of Our Lady of the Rosary Church.

Lieutenant Christopher Zarrella was recognized for 28 years of exemplary service and leadership in law enforcement, including his tenure as Executive Director of the Rhode Island Municipal Police Training Academy. Since 2018, Lieutenant Zarrella has overseen the training of more than 850 municipal police recruits, modernizing academy policies and curriculum to reflect best practices statewide. His leadership, mentorship, and commitment to professionalism have left a lasting impact on law enforcement training in Rhode Island as he approaches retirement in January 2026.

Father Joseph Escobar was honored for his decades of dedicated service as Chaplain to the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association and his unwavering support of the law enforcement community. Appointed as RIPCA Chaplain in 2006, Father Escobar has provided spiritual guidance, advocacy, and compassion to officers and their families. He has also been a powerful voice for impaired driving awareness, sharing his personal story of loss to promote roadway safety and community healing.

The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to two individuals: Chief William Devine (Ret.) of the North Providence Police Department and Colonel Steven G. O'Donnell (Ret.) of the Rhode Island State Police.

Chief William Devine (Ret.) was honored for a lifetime of dedicated public service spanning more than five decades in law enforcement. Beginning his career with the Providence Police Department in 1964, he rose to the rank of Major before later serving as Chief of the North Providence Police Department and Chief of the Bureau of Criminal Investigation for the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office. Known for his approachable leadership and commitment to community service, Chief Devine’s legacy reflects professionalism, integrity, and respect for all.

Colonel Steven G. O’Donnell (Ret.) was recognized for his distinguished career marked by exceptional leadership, service, and lasting impact on public safety. Over more than three decades, he served in state, local, and federal law enforcement roles, including Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police and Commissioner of Public Safety. His career highlights include national recognition as a “Top Cop,” groundbreaking undercover work, community-focused initiatives, mentorship of future leaders, and continued service in education, public safety consulting, and youth development.

The Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association proudly congratulates this year’s award recipients and extends gratitude to law enforcement officers across the state for their unwavering commitment to service. RIPCA also thanks AT&T for its generous support, which helps make this recognition possible.

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Contact:

Katie Brosmith

(774) 994-9509

katie@cromwellpublicaffairs.com