CENTRAL FALLS – Mayor Maria Rivera and the Central Falls Police Department officially swore in several new members of the department on Friday, May 22, including Hope, the city’s new Comfort & Compassion Dog, during a ceremony held at City Hall.
The ceremony welcomed new officers Ali Awad, Erika Carter, Marco Badia, and Marion Oferman.
Hope was formally sworn in alongside her handler, School Resource Officer Joseph DeCristopharo.
Hope’s name was selected by the community through a public survey last year. As the department’s comfort compassion dog, she will work closely with DeCristopharo to support students experiencing emotional or difficult situations within the school setting, states a release.. Hope will also visit senior high-rise buildings and community events throughout the city to provide comfort, companionship, and emotional support to residents.
“Today’s swearing-in reflects the values of the Central Falls Police Department and our city: Service, compassion, and community,” said Rivera. “We are proud to welcome these dedicated new officers as they begin their careers serving the residents of Central Falls, and we are especially excited to welcome Hope to the department. Hope will play an important role supporting students, seniors, families, and residents, helping strengthen the connection between public safety and care for our community.”
The addition of Hope further strengthens the CFPD’s nationally-awarded community policing efforts and commitment to community-focused policing, said officials.
“We are proud to welcome these outstanding officers to the Central Falls Police Department and grateful for their commitment to serving our residents,” said Colonel Anthony Roberson. “We are especially excited to welcome Hope to the department. Her presence will further advance our community-focused policing efforts by helping us connect with residents, support individuals during difficult moments, and strengthen trust throughout our city.”
Officer DeCristopharo said Hope will serve as a calming and reassuring presence for residents, students, and first responders alike.
“Being a Comfort K9 Officer means serving the community in a unique and compassionate way. Hope and I will be providing emotional support, reduce stress, and build positive relationships between law enforcement and the public we serve. We will be helping during times of crisis, tragedy, trauma, and even everyday challenges by offering comfort, reassurance, and a calming presence,” said DeCristopharo. “While working within CF schools, Hope and I look forward to helping children and families feel safe and comfortable during difficult incidents. Hope and I will do school visits, community events, and public outreach programs along with providing emotional support to first responders.”
“Hope and I are more than just an officer and a dog,” added DeCristopharo. “I am hoping the community sees Hope and I as a symbol of compassion, connection, and healing. I hope the community sees public safety is not only about protection, but also about care, empathy, and support for everyone.”
Hope was trained by HCC K-9 Dog Training in Cumberland, owned and operated by Brian Badd, who donated both the training and Hope’s equipment. Rumford Pet Center is donating food for Hope.
Officials and the Central Falls Police Department thanked all community partners involved in making the program possible and welcomed the department’s newest officers as they begin serving city residents.
