In a small town like Brandon, a police department is more than just a roster of names. It is made up of individuals whose lives and experiences shape how they serve the town. This week, continuing our series “Getting to Know the Brandon Police Department,” we introduce two more members of the team.

Click here to read part one of the series.

Officer Ethan Kelleher: Continuing a Tradition of Family Service

Officer Ethan Kelleher comes from a family deeply rooted in public service and law enforcement. His grandfather was the Franklin County Sheriff for many years. Both of his parents worked in that office, and his father now serves in federal law enforcement. His younger brother recently left the Army and is now an officer as well. “I was always drawn to service,” Kelleher said.

Kelleher joined the department on a part-time basis in 2022 while a sophomore at Castleton University (now Vermont State University). After graduating, he completed the police academy and transitioned to a full-time role. He has served as the Taser Instructor for the department and most recently received training to become the Active Shooting Response Instructor.

Outside of work, Kelleher enjoys working out and recently started practicing jiu-jitsu with other law enforcement officers from Rutland County. Last fall he enjoyed getting back to football, which he played in college, by volunteering as an assistant coach at Otter Valley Union High School. “It’s nice having a chance to give back to the younger guys,” he said.

Officer Rocio Ali-Nicolas: Answering a Calling from a Young Age

Officer Rocio Ali-Nicolas has known she wanted to become a police officer since she was a young girl. A suggestion from her father sparked her interest, and after learning more and watching YouTube videos of female police officers, she decided, “Yes, that’s what I want to do.”

Her motivation deepened in high school after she learned of the sexual assault of a student. “I just wanted to comfort her and to be involved in bringing justice,” she said. Her favorite part of being a police officer is providing comfort and assistance to people at some of the most difficult times in their lives.

Originally from South Carolina, Ali-Nicolas moved to Vermont to pursue a law enforcement career as soon as she was eligible, which state law allows at age 18. After graduating from the police academy as a fully-credentialed officer, she worked in the Springfield, Vt., PD for a short time. She was happy to make the move to Brandon and is enjoying getting to know the community.

In her free time, Ali-Nicolas enjoys cooking. “I wish I had a bigger kitchen,” she said. She also likes spending time with her boyfriend and her family.

Stay tuned for the next (and final) installment, where we will introduce the last two members of the department.