FELLSMERE — The Fellsmere Police Department has hired a new officer who will be tasked with upholding the department’s values, mission and motto. Mayor Susan Adams swore in Officer Tyler Mocere Thursday evening.
Police Chief Keith Touchberry introduced Ofc. Mocere to a crowded City Council chambers filled with fellow officers, Mocere’s family, and the City Council.
In leading up to the swearing in, Chief Touchberry gave a little history on the department, explaining its four core values: integrity, respect, honesty, and professionalism.
The motto – “Integrity First” are “two words that symbolize the department,” Chief Touchberry said.
Looking back over his shoulder to the new hire, the chief asked, “Tyler, do you think you can live up to that?”
“Yes, sir,” came Ofc. Mocere’s response.
The new hire was called to the front of the room, where Chief Touchberry read out the man’s credentials.
He said he had spoken with Ofc. Mocere’s police academy coordinator – “You’re not sweating; that’s a good thing!” the chief teased, eliciting chuckles from the audience.
Ofc. Mocere currently lives in the Melbourne area but has plans to move closer to Fellsmere, the chief said.
The new officer also intends to serve the Fellsmere Police Department and the community for “many, many years,” Chief Touchberry added. “That’s two manys.”
Mayor Adams swore the officer in and then invited his parents, Jim and Lisa Mocere, to have the honor of pinning the police badge to their son’s chest.
“That way I don’t get in trouble if I accidently poke you!” the mayor said.
Ofc. Mocere was born in Maryland but was raised in Florida. He played football for the last 10 years and currently plans to coach youth football. He attended the police academy at Eastern Florida State College and graduated in September 2013 where he excelled academically, according to Chief Touchberry.
Ofc. Mocere was described as very professional and respected among his academy peers, the chief added.
