Derrick Leto

Worcester Police Department

Worcester, MA

Date of Death: March 17, 2023

Age: 42
Years of Service: 18
Duty Status: Active
Veteran: Yes

Tonight we honor Sgt. Derrick Leto of the Worcester Police Department who died by suicide on March 17, 2023, after 18 years of service.

After graduating from North High School, Derrick earned his master’s degree from Anna Maria College in Criminal Justice. He proudly served his country as a United States Marine. Sgt. Leto dedicated 18 years of his life to the Worcester Police Department and became the department’s Diversity Officer. Over the last year of his career, he started Worcester’s first Cadet and Explorer programs which has had a profound effect on the youth of the community. He selflessly volunteered his time, whenever he was able, to the Second Baptist Church and the Friendly House. Derrick inspired everyone from strangers to his brothers and sisters here at the police department.

In Derrick’s free time, he enjoyed playing all sports, riding his Harley with the Blue Knight’s, boxing, poker, and traveling, especially to the Caribbean, with his family. Derrick had a very special place in his heart for his dogs, Rocky and Tyson. Above all, he loved his family and cherished every moment he spent with them.

He leaves behind many who love and will miss him terribly including his wife, Nichole (Gallagher) Leto; his children, Mickey and Damon Leto; a sister, Anna Leto of Worcester, his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Donna and John Gallagher of Barre; many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Thank you, Sgt. Leto for your devoted service. Special thanks to his family for having the courage to share him with us.