Chatham’s New Police Chief, Deputy Sworn In

CHATHAM – The town’s new police chief and deputy police chief were sworn in during a change of command ceremony at the police station on George Ryder Road last Thursday.

 Louis Malzone became the eighth chief in the department’s 104-year history, while Deputy Chief Sarah Harris became the first woman promoted to that rank.

 Malzone, who joined the department in 2006, highlighted three responsibilities of the chief that stand out for him: remaining committed to providing professional services that the community deserves and expects; maintaining and strengthening the department’s positive culture; and ensuring that officers have the training, equipment and support they need to succeed.

 “We cannot accomplish our mission without investing in our team,” he said during the July 22 ceremony.

 He thanked retiring chief Michael Anderson for his “leadership, support and mentorship. You have left us with a solid foundation.” 

 The change in leadership was the result of a collaboration between himself, Harris and Town Manager Jill Goldsmith, Malzone said, and represents a “shared commitment to build a strong leadership team for this department.”

 Harris, a 25-year veteran of the department, also thanks Anderson, town officials and staff and residents for their support.

 “I’ve felt on every path of this journey your support and guidance,” she said.

 Harris’ promotion to deputy chief was especially meaningful to Goldsmith. In her 30 years in local government, this was “the first time I had the privilege of promoting a woman to the rank of deputy chief.”

 Harris’ rising through the department, holding almost every rank and assignment, demonstrates that effective leadership is not a matter of rank alone, Goldsmith said. “It’s demonstrated through preparation, professionalism, mentorship, an example you set every day,” she said to the new deputy chief.

 The promotion of both Malzone and Harris shows “there’s no single path to leadership,” Goldsmith said. “Regardless of where someone starts, what matters is commitment to serving others, embracing opportunity and continually growing both professionally and personally.”

 Both Malzone and Harris thanked their families, who participated in the ceremony by pinning on their new badges. They also thanked the department’s staff.

 “Let the next adventure begin!” Harris said.