Two Life Long Rocky Hill Residents Promoted In Police Department

Joseph Phelps and Matt DiLorenzo were promoted in a formal ceremony at the on June 22 in front of family, friends and fellow officers.

Phelps was promoted to sergeant after being with the since 1993 when he was a police explorer. 

"It's great. This is something that I have always hoped for," Phelps, who graduated from in 1997, said. 

Phelps was a member of the marine unit and is a member of the honor guard unit. He was also the canine officer for six years, but relinquished the position when he was promoted to sergeant. 

Phelps has received numerous letters of recognition and commendations. He has been the recipient of the Meritorious Service Award and four distinguished Service Awards. 

By being promoted to partol officer, DiLorenzo full-filed a life-long dream. 

"It's amazing," DiLorenzo said. "This is where I wanted to be. It is a dream come true." 

DiLorenzo was hired by the New Britain Police in 2009 and graduated from the police academy in 2010. He asked for a transfer to Rocky Hill Police Department in 2011. 

DiLorenzo graduated from the Rocky Hill High School in 2004 and from Central Connecticut State University with a bachelor degree in criminology.

Phelps served as a police explorer and a fire cadet for four years. Phelps was a full-time fighter for three years and is the advisor of the police explorer program. DiLorenzo was a fire cadet from 2002-2006. 

The police department is funded for 35 officers including the chief. The department currently has two openings.