The Verona Police Department gained a new member Sunday, one with a youthful exuberance.

He is 4-year-old Micco LaRosa. Micco first met Verona police when he fell and hurt his head a few weeks earlier and, because he has a genetic disorder called Alagille syndrome, it became a more serious issue.

Micco had a skull fracture that required surgery, but recovered in time for his birthday, when officers came to his house and took him on a tour of the department before swearing him in as an officer for the day.

"We’ve only heard great things about the Verona Police Department, and they totally blew us away with everything they did for Micco," said his mother, Catrina Pisauro LaRosa. "I’m so proud to live in this town and never really want to leave."

Micco and his older brother Leo went on the trip through the Police Department. They were escorted there by a cavalcade of police cars, with West Orange officers joining Verona's. Micco used the sirens himself, which his mother said was his favorite part of the day.

Verona Police Chief Chris Kiernan read Micco an oath to swear him in as an officer. Micco wore his Verona police jacket and badge during the ceremony.

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Micco bounced back well from his fall, LaRosa said.

"He’s a very spunky little kid," she said, "a tough little kid, so it’s kind of like nothing happened."

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Alagille syndrome primarily affects the liver. About one in every 300,000 people are diagnosed with it, according to the American Liver Foundation. Micco is a bit smaller and may not have as much endurance as his peers, but he loves to be active, his mother said. The 4-year-old enjoys playing with toy trucks, doing artwork and keeping up with his big brother.

He's been in physical, speech and occupational therapy since he was 9 months old.

"That’s really helped him along as well, just to figure out a way to do things," LaRosa said. "He’s just got to do it a different way."

The family always participates in the Liver Life Walk in Verona Park. The event raises money for the American Liver Foundation, and this year's walk will be held June 9.

Verona Detective Joel Martin said doing something positive in the community is one of the most rewarding aspects of law enforcement.

"It’s not something we do every day, but when things come to our attention everyone wants to participate," Martin said. "Everyone wants to be there and support it."

Email: jongsma@northjersey.com