LYNN — Three new officers were sworn in at the Lynn Police Department on Tuesday after graduating from the Lynnfield Municipal Police Training Committee Academy.
Family, friends and city officials, including Mayor Jared C. Nicholson and Chief Christopher Reddy, gathered in the afternoon to celebrate the achievements of Officer Yanni Moraitis, 24, Officer Nicklas Davidsen, 31, and Officer Robert Vallery, 28.
Moraitis, from Peabody, said his admiration for law enforcement dates back to childhood.
“I’ve always looked up to police officers,” he said. “It seemed like something new every day — definitely not sitting in an office all day. I took the academy one day at a time, and it worked out.”
Somerville native Vallery credited his own family’s challenges for inspiring him to serve.
“I grew up in a big family, and there were a lot of issues,” he said. “I’ve always enjoyed helping people. I knew I could make a positive impact by joining law enforcement.” Vallery, a licensed electrician, added that the academy was an “amazing experience,” where he formed lasting friendships.
Davidsen, originally from Norway, said studying psychology and working in security led him to pursue policing.
“I’ve been interested in law enforcement for as long as I can remember,” he said. “I earned a master’s degree in criminal justice at Salem State University and spent time in hospital security before this. I’m excited to serve in Lynn.”
Chief Reddy commended all three for their hard work in reaching this milestone.
“It’s a lot of work to get here,” he said. “I talked to them right after graduation about the grind of the academy, and now they’re going through orientation. Very soon, they’ll be out there truly making a difference.”
Mayor Nicholson offered his congratulations, noting the importance of new officers joining the department.
“We have a lot happening in the city, a lot happening in this department,” he said. “We’re just so excited to have the infusion of energy, effort and care from you all. Thank you so much for stepping up and answering that call.”
