At its meeting on January 12, 2021, the Board of Selectmen appointed Kevin R. Kokansky and Zachary M. Perro as full-time police officers. 

Kokansky is a graduate of the Reserve/Intermittent Police Academy in Boylston and Worcester State University, and is currently a part-time police officer in the Hardwick/New Braintree Police Department. His appointment was effective Jan. 18, 2021. 

“I’m looking forward to helping out with everything I can,” said Kokansky who attended the Selectmen’s meeting via Zoom. “I’m looking forward to it.” 

Perro was also appointed at the meeting, though it was not on the agenda. The Board of Selectmen added the item at the request of Police Chief Mark Giovanella because it was a town safety issue. 

Perro will fill the position vacated by Richard Berkerian who has taken a position with the Hanson Police Department. 

Perro is currently putting himself through the Police Academy and will graduate in February. His appointment is effectiveFeb. 15, 2021 at which time he will start a one-year probation period and a three-month field training program before he starts filling shifts.

“We’re very fortunate to have even had the opportunity to interview him,” said Chief Giovanella, adding Perro could not attend the selectmen’s meeting because he was still at the Academy. 

Chairman Keyes, who participated in the interview process, said Perro was a good fit for the town. “And that he’s put himself through the Academy, speaks to his character.” 

When hiring another police officer in December, town officials noted it costs the town approximately $40,000 to train a new police officer. That will not be the case for these two officers who will have completed training before joining the Hopedale Police Department.