News Story

Kendra Baker

May 18, 2022

DANBURY — Four members of the city’s police force were promoted during a ceremony at Danbury City Hall on Monday.

Joseph LeRose

Joseph LeRose, who began his career with the Danbury Police Department in 1985, was promoted from lieutenant to captain.

During his 37 years on the force, LeRose has received numerous awards and citations, including the Exceptional Police Service Award, Medal of Bravery and Medal of Meritorious Service.

Before becoming a lieutenant in 2015, LeRose served as a sergeant for three years and a detective for six. In addition to serving as headquarters lieutenant, he is a member of the police department’s crisis negotiation team and serves as a court/private duty officer.

Mark Wochek

Mark Wochek, a 26-year member of the force, was promoted from sergeant to lieutenant.

After joining the Danbury Police Department in 1996, Wochek was promoted to sergeant in 2015 and has served as a field training officer since November 2008, as well as a member of the Honor Guard.

In addition to being a four-time recipient of the Exceptional Police Service Award, Wochek received a meritorious citation in January 2019, as well as unit citations in 2002 and 2021.

Michael Russotti

Michael Russotti, a member of the police department since December 2014, has been promoted to the rank of sergeant — three months after becoming a detective on the police force.

Not only did Russotti receive the Samuel J. Luciano Award for graduating at the top of his class at the Connecticut Police Officer Standards and Training Academy, but he’s received several letters of appreciation over the last nearly eight years.

He’s also held numerous roles as a member of Danbury’s police department, including crisis intervention officer intermediate, part-time evidence technician, police driver intermediate, peer support officer and rifle/breach kit officer.

Jonathan Grande

Jonathan Grande, a seven-year member of the force, was promoted from police officer to detective.

Since beginning his career with the Danbury Police Department in 2015, Grande has received several award and citations — including a unit citation, the Exceptional Police Service Award, Medal of Meritorious Services and letters of commendations.

LeRose, Wochek, Russotti and Grande’s promotions were approved by the Danbury City Council during its May 3 meeting.