Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Safety topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Police chief honored at final council meeting; officer Stone commended and new officer Talbot introduced
Summary
Chief Masati used his last council meeting to introduce new officer Tina Talbot, announce two new hires authorized by the police commission, and read a commendation for Officer John Stone’s lifesaving actions; the council and community expressed gratitude and support.
At his final Bridgeton City Council meeting on March 18, Chief Masati introduced newly sworn officer Tina Talbot, read a formal commendation recognizing Officer John Stone for lifesaving actions on Jan. 6, 2026, and announced the Board of Police Commission authorized hiring two additional officers, bringing authorized staffing to 54 positions.
Masati described his 40-year career and thanked current and former council members and commission members for their support. The commendation for Officer Stone described a routine patrol stop in which Stone discovered a dangerous setup (a dryer vent hose running from the vehicle tailpipe into the driver’s-side window), removed the driver to safety and maintained control until medical personnel arrived; Masati said Stone’s response “directly saved a life.”
Officer Tina Talbot — introduced by the chief — said she was grateful for the welcome and described her prior experience and certifications, including a bachelor’s degree in forensic science and training as a field-training officer. Masati also announced DEA drug-take-back activities and a community take-back/shred event scheduled for April 25.
Why it matters: The meeting publicly recognized line personnel actions and staffing milestones and marked the formal transition of leadership with Major Lovell named to serve as interim chief after Masati’s retirement.
What happens next: Major Lovell will serve as interim chief, and the police commission’s hiring authorizations will proceed through the department’s recruitment and academy schedules as noted by Masati.
