At the Harvard Police Department’s Dec. 23 Christmas party, officers celebrated not only the holiday but also the heroism and leadership shown by department members during the past year. Officers Edward Coffin and Aaron Cavanaugh and Detective Charles Genetti received Lifesaving Awards for their actions in 2024. Cavanaugh also received his promotion to sergeant at the celebration.
Describing an event in January 2024, Police Chief James Babu recounted how Coffin had saved the life of a young man—found unresponsive and with no pulse—by giving him many rounds of CPR. Just a few weeks later, in March 2024, Cavanaugh and Genetti faced a similar emergency, this time with an unresponsive 26-year-old man. Working with Genetti as well as first responders from the Fire Department and the Ambulance Service, Cavanaugh used CPR and Narcan to revive the man.
Cavanaugh was one of several officers who took the exam to qualify for sergeant last fall. In announcing Cavanaugh’s promotion, Babu said, “He has earned the trust of his colleagues, the respect of this community, and the confidence of this command staff.” Cavanaugh becomes the second sergeant in the department, joining Sgt. Charles DiRienzo.
Babu also recognized the long service of Administrative Assistant Trish Rouvel, praising her 25 years as dispatcher and front-desk assistant. “Trish’s professionalism, compassion, and steady presence have made a significant difference to both the department and the community,” he said. (The Police Log that appears in this paper would not be possible without Rouvel’s weekly help.)
Finally, Babu noted the 30 years of service of Officer Scott Hughes, who retired in February 2024 but is still a reserve officer.
From left: Newly promoted sergeant Aaron Cavanaugh, Detective Charlie Genetti, and Officer Eddie Coffin are recognized by Chief James Babu for saving a life. (Photos by Lisa Aciukewicz)
Sandra Cavanaugh, Aaron Cavanaugh, and Steve Conroy pose for a photo after Aaron Cavanaugh received his promotion to Sergeant on Dec. 23.
Trish Rouvel is recognized for 25 years of service as a dispatcher and administrative assistant for the Harvard Police Department
