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Inspector Joe Matusovich
SEYMOUR — A familiar face will head up the Police Department’s detective bureau.
Detective Joe Matusovich, who joined the department in 2005, was promoted to Police Inspector by the Board of Police Commissioners during a meeting April 7.
As inspector, Matusovich, 50, will be responsible for supervision and oversight of the detective division, along with all major incidences and investigations, according to Chief Paul Satkowski. Matusovich will also assist in the oversight of the patrol division and assist the police administration with various duties as needed, Satkowski said.
The married father of two boys, Matusovich was instrumental in overseeing the department’s major communications and technology upgrade several years ago. He joined the forced in 2005 and became a detective in 2013. He was cited for his bravery along with other fellow officers in 2010 for helping several trapped residents escape their smoky apartment building on North Street.
“Hopefully, he will bring forth new ideas from a technology perspective for investigations and departmental efficiency,” Satkowski said.
Matusovich will earn an annual salary of $92,000.
Matusovich’s late uncle, Frank Misiewicz, was a supernumerary officer in Seymour for many years, which, in part, sparked his interest in law enforcement.
“I really enjoy helping people,” Matusovich said. “I’ve always been interested in emergency service, and have been a member of the Eagle Hose Fire Co. (in Ansonia) for 30 years. I remember (former) Sgt. John D’Antona telling me a position opened up in the department and he told me to apply.”
Matusovich said heading up the detective bureau is something he’s excited about because it will still allow him to continue his love of investigating.
Matusovich said the role of the police has changed a lot since he first came onboard.
“The job is evolving and you have to navigate through it by becoming a problem solver, “ he said. “There are still bad people out there. I’m a firm believer in an arrest is the last resort. There are always options.”
Police Commission Chairman Kyle Kelley said Matusovich was the right fit for the job.
Matusovich replaces former Inspector Joe DeNigris, who retired last November, after a 30-year career with the department.
Kelley said six people applied for the job, and the top three were interviewed.
“After much deliberation, the decision of the majority was to promote Detective Matusovich,” Kelley said. “He, as well as the others, possess many great qualities and attributes. They have all had outstanding careers. While the decision was not an easy one, we felt that Detective Matusovich would best fill this position.”
Kelley said the inspector position has been vacant for several months, and being down a second deputy chief, as well, has posed some challenges.
“Filling this position will help the administration refocus and relieve some of the burden from the last few months,” Kelley said. “With the police accountability act there is much work still to be done. So the more help the better.”
