Last week, Wilton Police Officer Eva Zimnoch made history, when she was promoted from officer to detective. The professional recognition marked the first time a female officer was ever promoted in the town of Wilton.
Among the guests attending the promotion ceremony were Det. Zimnoch’s family members, including brother, Lester, a police sergeant in Meriden, CT, and her parents, Rose and Walter; town officials–first selectman Bill Brennan; police commissioners Christopher Weldon (chair), Donald Sauvigne and David Waters; members of the police and fire departments; and more.
Zimnoch is aware of how she’s setting an example for Wilton girls and teaching everyone about what female first responders can achieve.
“In 2015, there are more opportunities for women. Being a detective, and the first one in Wilton, is completely an honor. It goes to show you, if you have your mind set on something you can get it accomplished. I’m overwhelmed and can’t wait to start,” she said.
The promotion is a dream come true for the 36-year-old, who says she has always wanted to be a detective.
“It’s a lifelong dream since I was a little girl. I loved helping people. This totally fits my personality and my motivation. Now I’ll be in charge of more serious crimes in town, and that within itself, I’ve loved investigating, even when I was on patrol, I would take on any case I could. I’m very, very excited,” Zimnoch said.
Zimnoch joined the Wilton force in 2005, and in the ensuing years received many honors: not only is she a member of the department’s Honor Guard and Emergency Response Team, but according to interim chief Robert Crosby, “She has received numerous letters of commendation, and letters of recognition. In 2008, she saved somebody’s life and earned a life-saving award. This year, she was officer of the year. She has had quite a career with us.”
She also serves as the department’s training officer, responsible for training new officers.
After Zimnoch was sworn in by the town clerk, her brother had the honor of pinning a new detective’s badge onto Zimnoch’s uniform.
Great news, not just because she is the first female, but more so because she is a great officer.