New Britain Police Chief James Wardwell delivered an upbeat message to city police and the New Britain community as he announced his upcoming retirement.
“It is with the highest level of gratitude and mixed emotion,” said Wardwell, “that I will retire from the New Britain Police Department on January 25, 2019.”
Wardwell made an announcement to New Britain police personnel on October 30th of his plans to retire.
The city’s Police Chief said that, “I have been truly blessed to have been given the opportunity to serve a great department and wonderful community. I do remain so very fond of our department and community.”
Saying that he will conclude his twenty-five years of service with the New Britain Police Department with, “no regrets,” Wardwell said that, “The people and events that filled this quarter century have helped mold me into the man I am.”
“I am especially grateful and humbled that this great city put its faith in me back in 2012 to lead our department,” said Wardwell. “My experiences in the NBPD and New Britain Community will always be treasured memories.”
In his message to the Police Department’s officers and staff, Wardwell said, “In February 2019 I will begin my 3rd career; this time transitioning to the world of Corporate Security Management in Hartford.”
Wardwell added, “I will leave at the end of January with a deep love and appreciation of this department. You are the finest police officers.”
“Together we have accomplished so much and the path forward is positive for the NBPD,” Wardwell said to city police officers. “We have rebuilt solid bridges with the community, increased our staffing, updated our policies and state accreditation is around the corner.”
Wardwell says that he will continue to work hard as Chief until his retirement.
“I am optimistic about the future of the department with the terrific team we have built,” said Chief Wardwell. “Their path is clear and we can all expect the department to continue to grow in a positive direction.”
