Garfield swears in city chaplain, honors Junior Police Academy graduates and women officers

The Garfield Mayor and Council on Sept. 23 confirmed Pastor John Chipkowski as the city chaplain and held proclamation ceremonies honoring the 2025 Junior Police Academy graduates and the department’s female officers.

Pastor John Chipkowski repeated the oath and was sworn in by the mayor. Council members offered tributes, describing his Monday inspirational talks and community service.

Lieutenant Jeffrey Stewart announced the names of the Junior Police Academy graduating class and thanked the instructors — Lieutenant John Lacica, Lieutenant Jeffrey Stewart, Sergeant Daniel Pozzo, Detective Rebecca Schmidt, Detective Daniel Doleski, Officer Noah Murphy and Officer Marvin Monroy — for organizing a five‑day program that included physical training and field trips.

Police Chief Joe Delaney addressed the council and public, praising the academy instructors and encouraging graduates to consider careers in law enforcement. He also highlighted that the Garfield Police Department now has roughly ten female officers across ranks — including detectives and a lieutenant — and said the department expanded facilities to support that growth.

Council members presented proclamations recognizing female officers for National Police Woman Day and congratulated the graduates. The ceremonies included photo opportunities and brief remarks from the mayor and city manager.

Chief Delaney said, “I hope you enjoyed it, and I do hope that you do pursue a career in law enforcement.”

The council recessed briefly for photographs and then continued with the evening’s business.