Coogan announces new Fall River Chief of Police, advisory committee members

(Fall River, MA- May 5, 2020)- Mayor Paul E. Coogan has announced today that Captain Jeffrey Cardoza is the new Chief of Police for the Fall River Police Department.

Cardoza was born and raised in Fall River. He graduated from BMC Durfee High School and later attended Bristol Community College where he received his Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice. He then transferred to Roger Williams University and received his Bachelor’s Degree in Administration of Justice, and most recently received his Masters Degree in Public Administration from Anna Maria College. In addition to his education, Cardoza has attended numerous law enforcement schools to continue his professional development including the FBI National Academy.

Cardoza is a 29 year veteran of the Fall River Police Department where he has served in several leadership roles. He started his career as a Uniform Patrol Officer and over time successfully earned the rank of Detective, Sergeant, Lieutenant and Captain. His experience includes being Commander of the Major Crimes Division, Uniform Division and Staffing Services.

Cardoza desires to restore stability and boost morale in the Fall River Police Department. In his new role as Chief of Police, he looks forward to continuing to build upon trust and transparency between the police department and the community. Cardoza will serve as interim Chief of Police and his appointment is subject to the approval of the Fall River City Council.

Cardoza stated in today’s press conference that he is interested in developing more community policing and believes he has a good relationship with the union.

“The advisory committee was extremely impressed with the quality of all three candidates that the Fall River Police Department produced,” said Mayor Paul E. Coogan. “All of the candidates brought a unique set of qualifications to the interviews and both myself and the committee agreed that it was a very difficult and close decision. We hope all the candidates are able to work together to ensure the police department moves in a positive direction.”

The Chief of Police advisory committee included the following community members:
 Beatriz Furtado, Nurse
 Lisa Furtado, Fall River Public Schools Educator
 Rosemary Lapointe, Father Kelly Neighborhood Association
 Robert Nemkovich, Reverend of Blessed Trinity Parish
 Ron Rusin, Business Owner
 John Sylvia, Niagara Neighborhood Association
 Peter Silva, Retired State Police Officer