Three Methuen police officers were honored last week as Police Officers of the Year by the Methuen Exchange Club.
Sgt. Matthew Morel and Officers Jesse Fabian and Dannery Serrano were honored at a ceremony Nov. 19 at the Irish Cottage for their efforts to bring a potentially critical incident in September to a successful conclusion. On Sept. 21, the three officers were dispatched to a parking lot on Broadway following a report of an assault. Officers attempted to de-escalate the situation, but the 17-year-old at the center of the issue made harmful threats against the officers and the public and indicated the person would flee.
“Their teamwork, discipline and courage successfully neutralized the threat and prevented what could have been a devastating outcome,” Police Chief Scott J. McNamara said. “This illustrates the essence of what it means to wear the badge: to make split-second decisions with empathy, to prioritize life even under extreme duress and to exemplify the highest ideals of law enforcement.”
Morel and Serrano used what were described as “less-than-lethal Tasers” and were able to safely detain the person. Fabian ensured additional coverage to protect those involved. Officials said their actions ensured their own safety, protected the safety of those in the area, and demonstrated restraint, composure and professionalism.
Methuen Police later learned the person had been reported missing and had outstanding arrest warrants.
Morel joined the department in 2015 and has worked in both the Drug and Gang Unit and the Patrol Division. He was promoted to sergeant in September. In 2016, then-Officer Morel and Officer William Kannan were honored as Officers of the Year in 2016 for their swift arrest of a suspected bank robber.
Fabian came to the department in 2023, having served on the Lawrence Police Department for six years, working in the Patrol and Gang Units, Community Policing and Special Operations Division. He has worked both on the Crisis Intervention Team in the Lawrence Public Schools and as a therapeutic mentor at Lahey Behavioral Health. He additionally serves the Merrimack Valley community as a boxing trainer at the Lawtown Boxing Gym, coaching young adults and instilling discipline, resilience, and respect.
Serrano joined the department in 2022 and works the early night shift in the Patrol Division. He previously worked as a therapist, assisting children and adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities. Through this work he has developed specialized skills in behavioral support and crisis management. He has served nine years in the U.S. Army National Guard, and is a Sergeant assigned to the 772nd Military Police Company in Taunton.