August 10, 2016

Rep. Bolinsky Rides Along with Newtown Police Department

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NEWTOWN – On Friday morning, State Representative Mitch Bolinsky (R-106) joined the Newtown Police Department for a ride-along to get an inside look at a typical day on the job for members of the department.

Rep. Bolinsky rode with Patrolman Matthew Hayes, an 8-year veteran of the force, who heads the Adventurers program, works with the K-9 unit, participates in the regional SWAT team and is a Commander of the Police Honor Guard. He’s also an American hero, having been awarded a Purple Heart for his service to the nation in the Iraq War.

Rep. Bolinsky rode with Patrolman Matthew Hayes to personally experience a day on the job for a Newtown police officer.

“I am very grateful to Officer Hayes, Chief Viadero, Captain Rios and the entire police department for their hospitality, and allowing me to personally experience their daily routine. It’s impressive to observe the sensitive way they protect our community,” said Rep. Bolinsky. “I’ve never been in a car that was waved to by so many people. It was clear to me that our community respects and appreciates Newtown’s hard working and professional men and women in blue, or in our case, gray. I was also impressed with how many residents knew and loved seeing Officer Hayes. He’s a popular guy!”

Prior to the ride-along, Rep. Bolinsky toured the police department and spoke to officers and command staff, including Captain Joe Rios, about local issues affecting the department, including Connecticut’s drug overdose epidemic and the use of body cameras. Both issues have been major topics of discussion at the State Capitol since Rep. Bolinsky joined the legislature.

“I think it is important for legislators to spend one-on-one time with law enforcement to better understand the challenges faced each day they put on their uniforms,” said Rep. Bolinsky. “I encourage all my colleagues to share this experience. It’s time well spent in understanding and crafting solutions to the issues that affect all of our communities, including the drug addiction epidemic.”

Rep. Bolinsky tours the Newtown Police Department.

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