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Crime & Safety

Two of Farmington's Finest Police Officers Promoted

Susan DiVenere now a detective; Jason Raines promoted to sergeant.

The Farmington Police Department has announced the promotions of two officers: Susan DiVenere has been promoted to detective, and Jason Raines has been promoted to sergeant.

As the department’s Youth Officer for the past seven years, DiVenere has been working closely with the area schools, according to Police Chief Paul Melanson.

“I don’t think she realized how much her life would change,” said Melanson in comments about DiVenere provided to Patch. “She has done the work most hardened officers can’t do, and that is investigating the sexual and physical abuse of children.”

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She has been a liaison with DCF, FOCUS, Juvenile Review Board, Juvenile Court, the Farmington schools and the Multi-Disciplinary Team/Child Abuse Investigations.

“You will be hard-pressed to find anyone more passionate about her work,” said Melanson.

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In her new position, she will serve as a general investigations detective, added Det. Brian Killiany. The department will fill her former position at some point, said Killiany.

Hired in December 1989, DiVenere has been the recipient of six departmental commendations and has received more than 80 letters of thanks from residents, said Melanson.

As sergeant, Raines will be assigned to the Patrol Division, explained Melanson, where he will lead and mentor young officers. This past year, he was recognized by his peers as the Police Officer of the Year.

Raines, who came to Farmington from Virginia in 2001, is also a firearms instructor, assist team leader for the North Central SWAT Team, FTO, and has been working as a Community Policing/Special Projects Officer for the last two years. Raines is the police liaison to the Farmington Woods Association, the Citizens' Coalition for Equal Access, Capitol Area Substance Abuse Council, and he coaches a travel soccer club.

He has participated in, or organized, events such as NATPRO race to support the Wounded Warrior Project and Walton Pond, Relay for Life, Special Olympics, and local food and toy drives.

Officer Raines received a “Life Saving Award” this year for his heroism at the scene of a crash and is a recipient of a 2008 “Life Saving Award.” He has received nine departmental commendations and more than 26 letters of thanks from residents, said Melanson.

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