Thomas MacMillan File Photo
Two more laid-off police officers will be back on the beat soon if Chief Frank Limon has his way.
Limon said Tuesday he’ll ask the Board of Police Commissioners to re-hire Louis DeCrescenzo (pictured) and Casey O’Brien. Both were laid off in February as part of a controversial move to close the city’s budget gap. The city laid off 82 city workers, including 16 cops, a decision that ignited a passionate police protest.
Before they are rehired, both cops must pass a physical.
The officers can be rehired because of savings within the police budget, according to Chief Limon. Limon said in a press release that the department has reduced overtime pay from an average of $101,000 per week to roughly $64,000 per week, dating back to the beginning of the year.
The reduction in overtime, projected from January until the June 30 end of the fiscal year, equals enough money to bring back the two cops. In the release, Limon said continuing to manage overtime pay will allow the department “to potentially recall more officers.”
Another laid-off officer, Michael Pepe, was rehired late last month. Others found jobs in West Haven. Another three are due to be sworn in tonight to the North Haven police force.
That's a fine reduction in expense but overtime remains a problem. How can the city re-hire when the current year deficit remains?