Page 6 THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, JAnuARy 16, 2026 Captain Neil Burke alongside family members. SUPPORT FROM COLLEAGUES: Members of the Everett Police Department showed up in support of the newly promoted officers. Lieutenant Heather Dupont alongside family members. From left: Police Chief Paul Strong, Sergeant Eric Williamson and Mayor Robert Van Campen. PROMOTIONS | FROM PAGE 1 making her the first woman in the EPD to serve at that rank in its 156-year history. The City Council also unanimously approved the promotion of Officer Eric Williamson to the rank of sergeant — the first Black person to hold that rank in Everett. During the same meeting, Lieutenant Neil Burke was promoted to the rank of captain. These promotions reflect the continued commitment of the City of Everett and EPD to ensure its command staff reflects the diverse community it serves. “As one of my first official acts as mayor, I am proud to appoint Lieutenant Neil Burke to the rank of captain, Sergeant Heather Dupont to lieutenant, and Officer Eric Williamson to sergeant,” said Mayor Robert Van Campen. “Each of these officers is highly deserving of this recognition, and their leadership, perspectives and dedication will strengthen the Everett The promoted officers alongside Police Chief Paul Strong, Mayor Robert Van Campen, City Councillors and State Senator Sal DiDomenico. Sergeant Eric Williamson alongside family members and supporters. From left: Police Chief Paul Strong, Captain Neil Burke and Mayor Robert Van Campen. Police Department and help ensure our command staff reflects the community we serve. I am grateful to Chief Strong for his collaboration and shared commitment to building a department that is professional, inFrom left: Police Chief Paul Strong, Lieutenant Heather Dupont and Mayor Robert Van Campen. clusive and focused on public safety.” “I would like to congratulate Lieutenant Neil Burke on his promotion to captain, Sergeant Heather Dupont on her promotion to lieutenant, and Officer Eric Williamson on his promotion to sergeant,” said Police Chief Paul Strong. “Each of these officers has worked diligently to earn these promotions, and I am confident they will continue to serve our department and A HISTORIC NIGHT: During the Jan. 12 City Council meeting, Sergeant Heather Dupont was promoted to Lieutenant, making her the first woman to hold that rank in the department. Officer Eric Williamson was promoted to Sergeant, making him the first Black officer to hold that rank in Everett. Lieutenant Neil Burke was promoted to captain. community with integrity and professionalism. I thank Mayor Van Campen for his collaboration and continued commitment to public safety, and I look forward to our ongoing partnership as he begins his term.”
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