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Rockland County District Attorney’s Office Detective Xavier Fernandez Passes Away

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4 years ago

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ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY – The Rockland County District Attorney’s Office announces the passing of Detective Xavier Fernandez.

Detective Xavier Fernandez was born on February 5, 1991. He graduated High School on June 26, 2009 and Rockland Community College with a degree in Criminal Justice. As a little kid, Xavier always said that when he grew up, he wanted to “get the bad guys” and he did just that when he became an officer on July 2, 2015 for the New York Police Department.

Det. Fernandez worked as an NYPD officer and PBA representative for the 44th precinct until November 14, 2021. He started his dream job as a Detective in his home of Rockland County in November 2021 and was assigned to the RCDAO Drug Task Force and was quickly promoted to Group Supervisor. Det. Fernandez worked closely with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to combat drug distribution and related violence in each of Rockland’s towns and villages.

Xavier was a huge foodie, loved country music and spending time with his family and friends. He is survived by his devoted and loving sister Marleny Fernandez, and his beloved niece Mikayla. He is predeceased by his parents, Pedro and Melania Fernandez. Xavier is loved and will forever be remembered by his aunts, uncles, cousins, colleagues, and friends.

Detective Xavier Fernandez served the citizens of Rockland County with the highest caliber of professionalism and dedication. Xavier will be greatly missed and your loss will leave a void that can never be filled.

Funeral and Service Arrangements for Rockland County District Attorney’s Office Detective Xavier Fernandez, Group Supervisor for the Rockland County Drug Task Force.

Wake
November 6th & 7th
2-4pm and 7-9pm

Location:
TJ McGowan Sons Funeral Home
71 N. Central Highway
Garnerville, NY

Funeral Mass
November 8th at 10am

Location:
St. Peter’s Church
115 Broadway
Haverstraw, NY

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Police/Fire/EMS

Ramapo PD Youth Academy Graduate Clarissa Metellus Becomes NYPD Police Officer

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20 hours ago

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November 10, 2026

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RAMAPO, NY — A former graduate of the Ramapo Police Youth Academy has officially begun her career in law enforcement after graduating from the New York City Police Department (NYPD) Police Academy.

 

Officer Clarissa Metellus, a 2019 graduate of the Ramapo Police Youth Academy in Rockland County, was among 959 new NYPD officers who graduated on Tuesday, November 10, 2026.

The milestone was especially meaningful for the Ramapo Police Department, which celebrated Metellus’ journey from a local youth academy participant to a New York City police officer.

Among those attending the graduation ceremony was Ramapo Police Sgt. Anton, who served as the School Resource Officer at Ramapo High School in the East Ramapo Central School District in 2019.

Sgt. Anton attended the ceremony to personally congratulate Metellus and witness the former Youth Academy graduate take the next step in her law enforcement career.

The Ramapo Police Youth Academy provides young people with exposure to law enforcement and opportunities to build relationships with local police officers. Metellus’ achievement highlights the lasting impact these programs can have on young people considering careers in public service.

“Seeing a former Youth Academy graduate take the next step into a career in law enforcement is a proud moment for our entire department and a reminder of the lasting impact of our youth outreach programs,” the Ramapo Police Department said in a statement.

The department also congratulated all 959 members of the NYPD’s graduating class while offering special recognition to Metellus.

“All of us at Ramapo PD are incredibly proud of you. We wish you a long, safe, and successful career serving the people of New York City,” the department added.

Metellus now begins her career protecting and serving the residents of New York City, marking a proud moment for the Ramapo Police Department and the Rockland County community.

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Police/Fire/EMS

Matthew Zoda Named New Chief of Nanuet EMS

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1 day ago

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November 10, 2026

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Police officer smiling in front of vehicle.

NANUET, NY — Matthew “Matt” Zoda has been named the new Chief of Nanuet EMS, continuing a longstanding commitment to emergency medical services and a family tradition of serving the Nanuet community.

Zoda began his journey with Nanuet EMS at just 14 years old when he joined the organization’s Youth Corps. Over the years, he worked his way through the ranks, serving as Lieutenant, Captain, and most recently, Assistant Chief before being named Chief.

A Life Member of Nanuet EMS, Zoda has dedicated years of service to helping residents during medical emergencies and supporting the organization’s mission of providing emergency medical care to the community.

Public service runs deep in the Zoda family, which has a long history of involvement with Nanuet EMS.

His father, Tom Zoda, and sister, Katherine Zoda, are both Life Members of the organization, while his brother, Kevin Zoda, currently serves as a Lieutenant.

With multiple generations of the Zoda family involved in Nanuet EMS, Matthew’s appointment as Chief marks another chapter in the family’s longstanding dedication to serving their neighbors.

As the new Chief of Nanuet EMS, Zoda brings years of experience, leadership, and firsthand knowledge of the organization, having risen through its ranks since his teenage years.

His appointment highlights the importance of volunteer emergency medical services in Rockland County and the dedication of local first responders who devote their time to protecting and caring for their communities.

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