Faia promoted to lieutenant of police department

15-year veteran moves up with promotion of Wagner to chief

With a host of friends, family and colleagues looking on, Joe Faia, who has served for the past 15 months as detective sergeant for Conway Police Department, was officially promoted to lieutenant on Wednesday, becoming second in command to chief Ed Wagner, who was himself promoted just last month.Faia, who currently resides in Brownfield, Maine, was sworn in by town clerk Rhoda Quint and then received his new shield from Beth, his wife, with their daughter, Lauren, proudly looking on.Also Wednesday, Wagner recognized Patrolman Jason Blood, who will be shifting over to the Detective's Division, and new officers, Ptl. Terrence Spitler and recently hired Ptl. Christopher Mattei.Police commissioners voted unanimously to promote Faia at their meeting last week. "It is with confidence that the commission promotes a well-rounded, accomplished and respected officer to the rank of lieutenant," Dave Doherty, chairman, said. "Lt. Faia complements the administrative staff and we look forward to working with him as part of our team."Faia, who has been with the department since April, 1987, was promoted to detective in June, 2001. In June 2002, as a corporal, he became the department's certified firearms instructor. "I'm psyched and excited about the process," he said.Faia said he enjoyed working as a detective. "I'm definitely going to miss that end of it, but I think those guys will continue to do a good job... I'm looking forward to my new role and the challenges ahead."In his new role, Faia will serve as media liaison. "The media has always been good to me," he said. "I think we have a good relationship. I'm sure there is going to be a learning curve for me."Wagner was pleased with Faia's promotion. "He's going to do a great job." Doherty said Faia brings a wealth of experience to the new post, having gone through the ranks from a traffic control officer on up to lieutenant.