HOULTON, Maine — Four members of the Houlton Police Department received promotions Tuesday, Oct. 27, in a special ceremony at the Houlton Town Office.
Traditionally, promotion ceremonies would be held with family and friends, followed by a reception, but because of COVID-19 protocols, that type of ceremony was not possible this year, Houlton Police Chief Tim DeLuca said.
“It would have been nice to have family and community members here, but it’s one of those things we cannot do,” he said. “I am proud and honored to make these promotions under my watch. Over my years of service, the one thing that is most vivid to me was my promotions. These are what you strive for in our opportunities to make a difference.”
Officer Jasmine Cyr was promoted to the rank of detective. She replaces Steve Nason who stepped down from the post last month. Cyr has been with the Houlton Police Department since 2013.
Officer Travis Smith and Cpl. William Janakis were both promoted to the rank of sergeant. Both men have served with the HPD since 2015.
Officer Mallory Clayton was promoted to the rank of corporal. She has served with the HPD since 2017.
Houlton Town Manager Marian Anderson said she was excited to have the officers promoted from inside the ranks of the department.
“I am especially excited to see the Houlton PD promote women,” she said. “I think it is a very important element and I think you do a great job.”
The chief added he had high expectations for his new managerial staff.
“I am looking to each of you to work as a team to make a difference, while mentoring and guiding your staff,” the chief said. “This is not always an easy task, but one that carries much reward as you strive for excellence.”
Each officer promoted has proven their ability through experience and dedication to the department and the community, according to Chief DeLuca. He encouraged his new managerial staff to be open-minded and to support the new officers as part of the team.
“Supervision is critical within any law enforcement agency and these men and women are up to the task,” he said. “These promotions will give the department an opportunity to create new initiatives and meet the ever changing demands on law enforcement.”
Mallory Clayton of the Houlton Police Department has been promoted to the rank of corporal. (Joseph Cyr|Houlton Pioneer Times)
Travis Smith of the Houlton Police Department has been promoted to the rank of sergeant. (Joseph Cyr|Houlton Pioneer Times)
Jasmine Cyr of the Houlton Police Department has been promoted to the rank of Detective. (Joseph Cyr |Houlton Pioneer Times)
William Janakis of the Houlton Police Department has been promoted to the rank of sergeant. (Joseph Cyr|Houlton Pioneer Times)
