New Bedford adds three new police officers to the force

The New Bedford Police Department welcomed three new officers Thursday, April 12, at a swearing-in ceremony at City Hall. Officers Marc Felix Jr., Mason Oliveira and Robinson Ubri were sworn in by City Clerk Dennis Farias.

The New Bedford Police Department welcomed three new officers Thursday, April 12, at a swearing-in ceremony at City Hall. Officers Marc Felix Jr., Mason Oliveira and Robinson Ubri were sworn in by City Clerk Dennis Farias.

Mayor Jon Mitchell, City Councilor president Linda Morad, City Councilors Joseph Lopes and William Brad Markey, Police Chief Joseph Cordeiro, Deputy Chief Paul Oliveira, Lt. Nathaniel Rodriguez and Police Chaplain Rev. David Lima were on hand to welcome the city’s three newest officers.

The three new officers graduated Wednesday, April 11, from the Reading Police Academy. They were officially sworn in as New Bedford Police officers Thursday, April 12.

At Thursday’s ceremony, Mayor Jon Mitchell welcomed the new officers to the department, describing public safety as the foundation of the city.

“Public safety is the first business of government,” he said.

He said of the city’s goals for quality of life, job opportunities, good schools and other important priorities, “none of it happens without a solid foundation of public safety.”

He described police work as an avocation, “a call to service. It’s an especially demanding job that not everyone can do. Sometimes people appreciate what you do, often they don’t.”

He thanked the families of the new officers for their support. “Being a police officer is a family affair,” he said.

Police Chief Joseph Cordeiro congratulated the new officers for making it through a rigorous process. “Your dream did not end with the academy,” he said. “It’s just beginning. It starts today.”

The new badges and patches they now wear have great weight, the chief said. “The responsibilities and burdens they carry are enormous,” he said.

He encouraged the young officers to embrace the philosophy of community policing. “We need to be problem solvers,” he said. “We help the public and the public helps us. It’s a team effort. Treat people with compassion and respect, and I guarantee you’ll get that back.”

Officer Felix hails from Dorchester and grew up in Wareham before moving to New Bedford seven years ago.

He was inspired by a visit by a Boston Police Officer to his elementary school. “I was in awe of his presence,” he said. “Every experience I’ve had since then with a police officer has been inspirational.”

He especially credited the influence of one-time Wareham Police DARE officer, Lt. John Walcek, for his decision to pursue a career in law enforcement. “I’ve always wanted to help people,” he said.

He is married and the father of two children.

Officer Oliveira was born and raised in New Bedford.

He served as a cadet with the New Bedford Police Department, where much of his work was done within the walls of the department, including time in telecommunications.

“Being a cadet inspired me to be on the road, dealing with people,” he said. “I wanted to help not just on the phone but in person. I want to give back to the city.”

His family includes his girlfriend and her son.

Officer Ubri was born and raised in New Bedford. He decided to become a police officer when he met other officers and saw it was a “great career. They loved it. So I’m happy to be here.”

He said he looks forward to participating in community events and reaching out to people. “This city made me so I want to help the city,” he said.

He and his fiancee and two sons live in New Bedford.