St. Petersburg Police Department issued the following announcement on Oct. 29.
Congratulations to Sergeant James Alese on his retirement!
Sgt. Alese was born in Puerto Rico, grew up in Long Island, NY, then moved to St. Petersburg, where he worked at a convenience store on 4th Street. All of the officers he encountered at the store inspired his longtime desire to help people.
He was sworn in as a St. Petersburg Police Officer on March 24, 1990.
Sgt. Alese was first a Patrol Officer and then a Field Training Officer, his favorite assignment. He was able to mold young officers to be effective and professional.
After a stint as an Internal Affairs Detective, he was promoted to sergeant in 2002.
Sgt. Alese supervised the Downtown Deployment Team, Crimes Against Children and Personal Violence Units (two of the toughest units in police work), and then back to his first love, Field training.
His coaching and teaching abilities made him one of the most respected and well-liked supervisors, and his years in field training will leave a legacy.
Sgt. Alese was a part of the Special Events Response Team and supervised the “Cut Team” for various city events.
For his professionalism and dedication, he was recognized many times to include receiving the prestigious career Ned March Award.
Thank you, Jim, for your 32 years of outstanding service to the City of St. Petersburg. Your experience and dedication will be missed.
It’s time for some rest and relaxation.
Well done, sir!
Original source can be found here.
Source: St. Petersburg Police Department
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