SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – The Springfield Police Department celebrated the promotion of four new Sergeants and a new Lieutenant Wednesday at Springfield City Hall.

Police Superintendent Cheryl Clapprood led the pinning ceremony and expressed her appreciation for the years of service these newly-promoted officers have dedicated to the city. Clapprood also said that strong leadership is key to the department right now, as they continue to modernize their efforts to bring in new recruits.

The following officers have been promoted:

• Lieutenant Louis Rosario – pinned by retired Springfield Police Sergeant Wilfredo Ferrer
• Sergeant Mark Evans – pinned by his daughter Christina, accompanied by his wife Nicole
• Sergeant Christopher Roberts – pinned by his son David
• Sergeant David Robillard – pinned by his father David
• Sergeant Jason Sleeper – pinned by his son Alexander

“This is an important time for the Springfield Police Department as we continue to move forward and modernize our operations. To be successful as a department a lot of it begins with our first-line Supervisors. Our new Sergeants have various levels of experience and backgrounds which should be a benefit to our young officers in the Squads. I’d also like to thank and congratulate Lt. Rosario who has continued to help us through some transitions in the department. I wish everyone the best of luck and future success as they have all reached a career milestone that these officers and their families should be proud of,” said Springfield Police Superintendent Cheryl Clapprood.

Mayor Sarno states, “Police Superintendent Cheryl Clapprood and I want to thank all of our brave and dedicated police officers and their families for the work they do day-in and day-out. Congratulations to those officers being promoted. These promotions are well earned and deserved. Superintendent Clapprood and I want to express our thanks and appreciation to all of our brave and dedicated men and women in blue for their continued service to our residents and business community. Again, congratulations to all of our newly promoted officers. God Speed!”