NYPD Gets First Chasidic Sergeant

With his parents in attendance, Joel Witriol, who back in 2006 became the NYPD’s first Hasidic officer, beamed with pride as he was promoted to sergeant during a Friday ceremony.

NY1.com reports that Witriol, whose bother has since joined him on the force, will be moving on from his current status with the transit bureau in Brooklyn to a new assignment at the 13th Precinct in Manhattan.

Witriol, whose career in law enforcement began back in 2003 as an auxiliary officer, said the promotion came as somewhat of a surprise, but nevertheless is viewing it as an opportunity to connect with more people on behalf of the community.

Asked about the inherent concerns that come with being the parents of two NYPD officers, Witriol’s father Louis said he and his wife are aware of the risks, but have been fine so far due to constant communication with their sons.

“If they are going to be late, they let us know because my wife is a very nervous lady,” Louis Witriol said.