New Bedford Police Department recognizes female staff on National Police Woman Day

“In recognition of National Police Women’s Day, we are so proud to post this photo which depicts some great history.

From Left to right:

Officer Sandy Grace, and Detective Barbara Lipsett, were among the first female police officers in our department and the first female school resource officers. Officer Grace was also the first female K9 officer!

Officer Pauline Garcelon, was the first female New Bedford police officer AND the first female detective.

Sergeant Rita Ribeiro, the first woman of color to be promoted to Sergeant, the first commander of our domestic violence unit AND the first commander of our school resource division.

Please leave a message for all four of these groundbreaking women in law enforcement who are currently enjoying a well-deserved retirement!!

Thank you for your service!!
#NationalPoliceWomanDay.” -City of New Bedford Police Department.