Two Paterson police officers promoted
By Jayed Rahman
Published: October 14, 2015
Veteran police officers Karen Rayfield and Tamiko White were promoted to the rank of sergeant on Tuesday, announced mayor Jose “Joey” Torres’ administration.
“Your promotion has elevated both of you not only in the eyes of your colleagues, but also in the eyes of the citizens of Paterson, and in the hearts of your families and friends, and I’d like to congratulate you in your new endeavors,” Torres said in a promotional ceremony.
The two women have been working for the city’s police department for well over a decade. In fact, Rayfield joined the police department 19 years ago. White came on board 13 years ago, according to city records.
Both Rayfield and White are African-American. Both their gender and their race adds to the diversity of the department’s supervisory staff.
“Like the nation itself, the City of Paterson has always found strength in its diversity and it’s that spirit of diversity that we celebrate today, with the promotion of these two officers to the rank of Sergeant for the Paterson Police Department,” said police director Jerry Speziale. “It is a great day for the City of Paterson and for our Police Department.”
Rayfield’s salary was $89,000. White’s was $83,000. A police sergeant typically earns roughly $104,000, according to city records.
Police chief William Fraher recognized the two women’s hard work and dedication to their job and welcomed them as sergeants.
“It is important that the ranks of our Police Department reflect the community we serve and I urge you to ensure that the men and women of our police department remain the pillars of trust, service and integrity that the citizens of Paterson so richly deserve,” said Torres.