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Waterford’s new police chief aims to address mental health challenges facing officers through expanded wellness programs.Quantico Today
Waterford has appointed David Ferland as its new police chief, replacing the recently retired Marc Balestracci. Ferland, a 20-year veteran of the force, plans to prioritize officer wellness and mental health initiatives, drawing on his recent training at the prestigious FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia.
Why it matters
Police departments across the country have struggled with high rates of burnout, stress, and mental health challenges among officers, which can impact public safety and community trust. Ferland’s focus on proactive wellness programs aims to support his officers and improve overall department morale and performance.
The details
Ferland began his career thinking he would become a high school math teacher, but halfway through college became interested in law enforcement. He worked for the New London Police Department for seven years before joining the Waterford force in 2013, working his way up to the rank of lieutenant in 2021. In 2023, Ferland was selected to attend the elite FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, a 10-week executive-level training program for less than 1% of law enforcement professionals.
Ferland was promoted to police chief this week, replacing the recently retired Marc Balestracci.Ferland attended the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia in 2023.
The players
David Ferland
The new police chief of Waterford, Connecticut, with over 20 years of law enforcement experience, including a prestigious training program at the FBI National Academy.
Marc Balestracci
The recently retired police chief of Waterford, Connecticut.
Mark Gelinas
The chairman of the Waterford Board of Police Commissioners.
Rob Brule
The First Selectman of Waterford, Connecticut.
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What they’re saying
“The members of the police commission congratulate Chief Ferland on his appointment and look forward to working with him in the future.”
— Mark Gelinas, Chairman, Waterford Board of Police Commissioners
“He is respected within the department and across the region, and he understands both the challenges and opportunities facing modern policing.”
— Rob Brule, First Selectman, Waterford
What’s next
Ferland plans to formalize and fund new officer wellness programs that were introduced by his predecessors, with a focus on mental health support.
The takeaway
Waterford’s new police chief is prioritizing proactive measures to address the mental health and wellness of his officers, drawing on his recent executive-level training at the FBI National Academy. This approach aims to boost morale, performance, and community trust in the department.
