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Pinellas Park swears in six police officers; city proclaims Domestic Violence Awareness and Fire Prevention months
Summary
Mayor Sandra Lee Bradberry and council swore in six new police officers and presented proclamations recognizing October 2024 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Fire Prevention Month; CASA described local shelter and Family Justice Center services and statistics.
Pinellas Park — The City Council opened the meeting by swearing in six newly hired police officers and recognized community partners addressing domestic violence and fire prevention.
Mayor Sandra Lee Bradberry introduced the newest officers — Matthew Killian, Brian Eold, Christopher Cram, Jason Matatu, Joe Amabel and Michael Trieloff — read brief biographies and led the oath of office and pinning ceremony.
Following the swearing‑in, the mayor proclaimed October 2024 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Pinellas Park. Rachel Johnston, donor relations specialist at CASA (Community Action Stops Abuse), described CASA’s work: a 100‑bed emergency shelter with an attached kennel to allow survivors to bring pets, and a Family Justice Center that connected with about 860 people last year. "We have a 100‑bed emergency shelter for survivors of domestic violence…we helped 68 people at our emergency shelter last year but we helped 860 people at our Family Justice Center," Johnston said.
The council also proclaimed Fire Prevention Month and urged residents to install and test smoke alarms. Fire Department representatives highlighted the year‑round importance of smoke alarms and public education.
Why it matters: The swearing‑in expands the city’s public‑safety workforce; the proclamations and CASA presentation underscore city support for survivor services and public‑safety outreach.
Next steps: City staff said they will publicize donation links and partnership information for CASA on the city’s website and social channels and will continue fire‑safety outreach through October and beyond.
