Two new Rochester police officers sworn in

ROCHESTER — Two new patrol officers, Paul Douglas and Christopher Coyman, were sworn into the Rochester Police Department at a Select Board meeting Monday, March 16. 

Rochester Police Chief Michael Assad said two positions had recently come open providing an opportunity to bring new officers fully committed to serving Rochester into the community. 

The positions had come open after two officers had left for new opportunities in recent weeks. One officer is heading to the New Bedford Police Department and the other is pursuing work in the entertainment industry. 

Assad recommended Douglas and Coyman for the open positions. He explained that Douglas has a background in police enforcement for over 25 years. 

“His depth of experience, leadership ability and operational knowledge make him exceptionally well qualified to serve the town of Rochester in his capacity,” Assad said. 

Douglas is currently the deputy sheriff of Pullman County in the Bureau of Criminal Investigation. He has experience in public safety and working with K-9 units. 

Assad recommended Coyman for the position because of his over 10 years of police work and his wide range of experience including criminal investigation and crisis management. 

“Mr. Coyman presents a strong and well rounded law enforcement background that makes him exceptionally qualified for patrol service in the town of Rochester,” Assad said. 

He is currently the deputy sheriff identification officer with the Plymouth County Sheriff Department's Bureau of Criminal Investigation. 

Assad also recommended Coyman for the role since he has experience in patrol, providing him with the foundation for a town police force and community engagement.