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Stepson announces passing of former Fall River police officer who served for 40 years
Sean Botelho, the stepson of a former Fall River police officer who gave decades of services has announced his passing courtesy of the following.
Rest in Peace, Sgt. Ronald Briand “Sarge”
It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of my stepfather, Sgt. Ronald Briand, who passed away last night at the VA nursing home in Chelsea, Massachusetts, at the age of 86 after a brief respiratory illness. He had been dealing with the effects of a stroke he suffered several years ago.
I know many of (you) knew Ron, especially those who had the privilege of working alongside him at the Fall River Police Department, where he served for 40 years.
Ron was an old-school cop in every sense of the word. He was the kind of sergeant who took care of his men. If one of his guys was in trouble with administration, Ron was the guy who would put his own ass on the line to stand up for them. He believed in taking care of your people, and he lived by that mentality.
I was fortunate enough to not only have him as my stepfather, but to actually work alongside him at the Fall River Police Department for several years. He was always there for me and always had my back, both as a father figure and as a fellow police officer.
I know many of you worked with Ron and have your own stories, memories, and probably a few good ones that probably shouldn’t be repeated here. 
He was truly a product of a different generation of policing—a time when being a cop meant taking care of your brothers and sisters, standing up for your people, and having their backs. That old-school mentality is something you just don’t see much anymore.
But beyond the badge, Ron was also a great Pepe to all of his grandchildren. They loved him dearly, and he loved them just as much. He will be deeply missed by all of his grandchildren and by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Rest peacefully, Sarge.
You were a great husband, father, stepfather, Pepe, sergeant, and friend.
Thank you for always having my back. I’ll never forget it.
Husband • Father • Stepfather • Pepe • Sergeant
Arrangements will be announced at a later date.
