Crime & Safety
Westfield Police Officer Honored As Law Enforcement Hometown Hero
Westfield Police Officer Michael DiBella was honored by Congressman Tom Kean as District 7's Law Enforcement Hometown Hero of the week.

WESTFIELD, NJ — Westfield Police Officer Michael DiBella was honored as District 7 Law Enforcement Hometown Hero this week by Congressman Tom Kean.
"Since joining the force in 2019, Officer DiBella has served with honor and integrity," said Kean on Tuesday.
DiBella had served as a School Resource Officer at Roosevelt Intermediate School in Westfield, where he mentored, educated, and inspired students every day.
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His exceptional performance has earned him a new assignment at Westfield High School for the 2025–2026 school year.
"Officer DiBella has been doing some exceptional work with the youth of our community," said Westfield Police Chief Christopher Battiloro. "I was thrilled to recommend him for this recognition. He has earned it."
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Kean also noted that DeBella is passionate about building strong community ties. He leads programs and events that foster positive relationships between law enforcement and the special needs community — most notably the department’s annual Family Autism Day, according to Kean.
The Family Autism Day event brings together individuals on the autism spectrum, their families, and Westfield’s first responders for a day of crafts, games, food, and music in celebration of Autism Awareness Month.
"Thank you, Officer DiBella, for your outstanding service to Westfield’s young people and the surrounding community!" said Kean.
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