Congratulations to Somerville Auxiliary Police Chief Jerry Carvalho, who tonight stepped down as Chief of the SAPD after 40 years of volunteer service; 18 as Chief. Jerry is a true professional, a gentleman and a colleague. His selfless dedication and commitment to the Auxiliary Police Department and the people of Somerville will long be remembered. 

Jerry’s volunteer hours over 40 years is close to or maybe even greater than 100,000 hours. He was a volunteer Aux Police Officer for all the right reasons. He was never trying to play cop. He loved the city and was committed to doing his part to make the SAPD a respected organization where those interested in law enforcement could learn and contribute to the safety of Somerville and beyond. Jerry was a true leader and a pleasure to work with. 

 Thank you Chief.

The Somerville Auxiliary PoliceDepartment is a volunteer division of the Somerville Police Department and has been serving the citizens of Somerville since 1942. The membersof the unit have in interest in law enforcement and come from various professional and educational backgrounds. The SAPD has many functions, most of which involve a strong emphasis oncommunity-oriented policing. In order to better carry out its day to day duties, the unit is equipped with police cruisers and two patrol mountain bikes. Some of the unit’s functions include; assisting with traffic for large events and road races throughout the year, patrolling city owned properties and parks, assisting the Somerville Police Department with car accidents, fires, medical aids, and emergency management situations. Somerville Auxiliary Officers attend the Massachusetts Reserve/Intermittent Police Academy and most are First Responder certified or EMT’s. Officers are also trained in Federal Emergency Management Agency’s National Incident Management System and are prepared to assist during emergency situations. Members are issued regular Department equipment, including firearms, and attend the same training and qualification courses.
Attendance is required during departmental training/meetings and every member must work two cruiser shifts and one detail per month. The department cruiser can be seen on patrol every night from 6:30pm to 11:00pm under the call sign “201.” Office hours are 6:30pm -9:00pm every Tuesday night and it is encouraged that anyone with questions or concerns contact the Auxiliary Police during this time.