The Rockville Centre Police Department strengthened its ranks with the swearing-in of two highly experienced officers during the village’s Board of Trustees meeting.
The Dec. 1 ceremony, attended by other police officials and community members, marked a continued investment in public safety as the department grows to 55 sworn officers.
Mayor Francis X. Murray welcomed the additions of Anthony Fazio and Thomas McNeel, praising both officers for their “extensive backgrounds and dedication to public safety,” qualities he said would reinforce Rockville Centre’s long-standing reputation as one of Long Island’s safest communities.
Police Commissioner Randy Dodd echoed that sentiment during the induction, offering detailed introductions that highlighted each officer’s service record and the experience they bring to the village.
Dodd first called forward McNeely, who grew up in Island Park and graduated from West Hempstead High School. McNeely answered what Dodd described as “the call to serve our nation” by enlisting in the United States Navy after high school.
Serving as a gunner’s mate aboard the USS Ramage in Norfolk, Virginia, McNeely excelled during four years of active duty and rose to the rank of petty officer second class.
After completing his military service, he continued his commitment to public protection by joining the NYPD in 2021. McNeely served in several Transit Bureau assignments, including the Transit Bureau Response Team—an elite unit focused on combating crime and improving quality-of-life conditions throughout New York City’s subway system.
Fazio’s path to Rockville Centre is rooted in a similar devotion to service. A Manorville native and graduate of Eastport–South Manor High School, Fazio enlisted in the United States Marine Corps driven, Dodd noted, “by a deep sense of duty.”
Fazio deployed to Helmand Province, Afghanistan, in 2011, where he demonstrated discipline, courage, and the high standards of the Marine Corps. Following his military service, he studied accounting at Suffolk Community College before joining the NYPD in 2016 and later continuing his career with the New York State Police, where he attained the rank of sergeant.
Dodd said both officers’ military backgrounds, specialized training, and on-the-job experience will play a crucial role as Rockville Centre continues to modernize its police force.
“Their proven dedication to service and community will strengthen our department and the village we protect,” he said. “We are proud to welcome them to our ranks.”
