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Somerville swears in Officer Eric A. Melendez; police recognize officers with valor awards

Borough of Somerville Council · August 4, 2026
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Summary

The council approved the hiring of Eric A. Melendez, who was later sworn in; the chief presented several awards and recounted incidents that earned officers valor and a medal of valor for confronting armed suspects.

The Borough Council approved the hiring of Eric A. Melendez and the oath of office was administered when family was present. Mayor Brian Gallagher and the chief celebrated the new officer and stressed community support for the department.

The police chief described the hiring process and said Melendez ranked first after interviews and a background check; Melendez will be fielded with a training officer for about three months. "He came out number 1 on our process, and after a thorough background, he is ready to go," the chief said.

The chief also presented awards for acts of "extraordinary heroism," detailing two events in which officers confronted armed suspects, secured weapons and made arrests. Officers received the chief's award, a medal of valor and recognition from the 200 Club of Somerset County for their actions.

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