'Westfield Is Such A Special Place To Me': New Sergeant Of Police Reflects On His Community

WESTFIELD, NJ - Talking to Christopher Forcenito, you get reminded that there's an art to building something meaningful.

While that could easily apply to his close-knit group of family and friends or his latest work of art, Westfield's newest Sergeant of Police knows the canvas of what makes this town great is one that the community fills in together.

Fresh off of Chief Christopher Battiloro's announcement that the 10-year-veteran will be assuming the role of Sergeant in the near future, Forcenito will tell you that his latest recognition is more a responsibilty than a promotion. Home means more than just patrolling a beat to the 38-year-old from Staten Island, a winner of the department's COVID-19 Exceptional Service honor for this response in the community during the pandemic.

"I take a lot of pride in being part of a department that works so closely with the community to keep it safe...it's a great place to just walk around enjoy the energy of the town."

In our exclusive interview, Sgt. Forcenito talks passion, purpose and tells Patch that Westfield gives just as much to him, if not more, than he returns laying his life on the line to help others every single day.

Motivation

It's no secret that a lot of people get into a profession for the accolades, of which you have a handful with two more on the way, one being this promotion. I can't help but to think though that for someone like you who has worked in some of the most dangerous, fast-paced situations as an EMT with the Fire Department of New York and now as a police officer in North Jersey, it's a lot deeper than that.

Forcenito: Being promoted to Sergeant is truly an honor and a milestone in my law enforcement career...It represents not just personal growth, but a greater responsibility to lead with integrity, set an example, and support the development of others in the department.

Let's talk about the Command Citations. Chief Battiloro says you're right at the top of the department when it comes to "best qualified and most deserving" for "police work beyond an ordinary or routine nature." What's he speaking to there on a broader scale do you think?

Receiving these Command Citations was both humbling and validating. Each one reflects moments in my career where training, teamwork, and instinct aligned to ensure public safety and uphold the law. These were not just individual efforts, but outcomes made possible through the collective dedication of the department.

Both of those awards were related to your response to drug-related situations. This new award you are due to receive is a Unit Citation, given “for commendable service performed as a member of an operating unit in a cited action.” Talk to me about what this means to you, answering the call after multiple vehicle burglaries were reported in the area.

The upcoming Unit Citation is especially meaningful to me because it highlights the strength of collaboration. It speaks to what we can achieve when we work together with purpose and urgency.

The Westfield Police Department

What is it in your team that you value most?

I'm proud to be part of this department that consistently puts the community first and strives for excellence, even in the most challenging situations. I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given and remain committed to serving with the same passion and professionalism that brought me here.

The Westfield Community

Why is Westfield special?

Westfield is such a special place to me because it’s a true community. The people here look out for one another, and being able to serve in a town with that sense of connection is something I’m really grateful for. I take a lot of pride in being part of a department that works so closely with the community to keep it safe.

The Other Side

So what's the playbook look like when you're off duty? What do you get into at home and around Westfield?

When I’m not working, I love enjoying the local spots. Westfield has some great restaurants, whether it’s grabbing a slice of pizza, a good coffee, or sitting down with friends for a nice dinner. There’s always something going on downtown, and it’s a great place to just walk around and enjoy the energy of the town.

Outside of work, I’ve always been an artist at heart, and one of my biggest passions is woodworking. I’m also a big fan of spending time with family and friends, they’re my support system and mean the world to me. As far as interests go, I enjoy movies and staying active.

Currently under a temporary role in the Detective Bureau, Sergeant Forcenito will next be assigned to the Patrol Services Bureau as a field supervisor.