UTICA — Four Utica police officers were promoted to new ranks at a ceremony at Utica City Hall Friday morning.

Family, friends and fellow officers packed the Common Council chambers to support the new promotions. Department officials said several recent retirements of high-ranking officers led to the new promotions.

“We have the best police department in New York State. We’re the most trained, the most experienced,” said Utica Mayor Robert Palmieri.

“The men and women of our police department go above and beyond.”

Those promoted include:

• Lt. Stanley Fernalld has been promoted to captain;
• Sgt. Michael Curley has been promoted to lieutenant;
• Inv. Joshua Austin has been promoted to sergeant; and
• Police officer Kyle Piersall has been promoted to sergeant.

Each officer took the oath of office and then signed the city’s civil service book. Their family members assisted in pinning their new badges to their uniforms.

“It takes class, and that’s something that each and every one of you has,” said Palmieri. “It’s a challenge” to be promoted and now rank above their peers. You’re not going to make everyone happy, but that’s not what you’re there for. You’re there to protect them, to guide them.”

Also in attendance was Utica Police Chief Mark Williams, who said, “the department is very lucky because we have a lot of young leadership talent.”