MONROE, Conn. — Monroe police officer Helio Ramalhete rose through the ranks of the department over the course of his 20-year-career, from patrol officer to detective and sergeant before earning the rank of lieutenant. He received his latest promotion during the Monroe Police Department Awards Ceremony, held inside the Jockey Hollow Middle School auditorium Thursday evening, along with another prestigious honor.
Chief Keith White presented Ramalhete with this year’s Chief Jacob J. Tufano Officer of the Year award. He went on to tell the audience of family members and guests how Ramalhete assumed the role of administrative sergeant in 2024, in which he supervised community relations officers.
White said Ramalhete immediately revitalized community engagement efforts, expanding participation in numerous town events such as the fishing derby, Stuff the Gazebo Toy Drive, holiday food drives, Trick or Trunk events, Coffee with a Cop, Read Across America with Monroe Public Schools, scout tours of the police department, Touch-a-Truck, visits to the Farmers’ Market, Wolfe Park camp and daycare programs and, most notably, the Monroe Night Out.
“Through these initiatives, Sgt. Ramalhete has significantly strengthened the relationship between the police department and the community, fostering trust, visibility and collaboration,” White said.
The chief said Ramalhete also played a key role in advancing departmental operations through his work in the accreditation office, where he contributed to the development and modernization of policies and procedures.
“He led a redesign of the department’s website and successfully secured critical state and federal grants that support initiatives in traffic safety enforcement — including speeding seatbelt and DUI enforcement — as well as officer wellness programs,” White said. “These accomplishments have enabled the department to remain proactive, effective and supportive of its personnel.”
“Through his leadership, Sgt. Ramalhete has made a lasting impact on both the present and future of the Monroe Police Department,” White added. “He has consistently championed a community-oriented approach to policing while prioritizing the well-being of his fellow officers and the best interests of the town of Monroe. His dedication, professionalism and steady leadership exemplify the highest standards of law enforcement service.”
In addition to his official police duties, Ramalhete also served on the Monroe Police Union Board as both treasurer and vice president.
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