Crime & Safety

New Groton Town Police Chief, Deputy Chief Sworn In

Chief Michael Crowley has served the town police department for nearly 26 years.

Acting Chief Michael Crowley was sworn in as chief of the Groton Town Police Department Friday, and Capt. Steve Smith was sworn in as deputy chief.

 “I’m very excited and honored to be standing here today,” Crowley told the more than 60 people gathered for the ceremony at the Groton Senior Center.

Crowley, who has served as acting chief since former Town Police Chief Kelly Fogg retired this summer, said he has inherited a great department and will maintain its professionalism and integrity.

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Crowley said he would strive for excellence in his new role -  “excellence in our service to the community, excellence in our investigative techniques and excellence in the manner in which we conduct ourselves.”

He said officers need the tools to evolve with the changing demands of police work, but also need the old-fashioned techniques of community policing, in which officers patrol specific neighborhoods, get to know residents and businesses, and build relationships.

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 “It is imperative to involve all the officers in community policing, not just a select few,” he said.

Crowley has been with the Groton department since May 1985 and has served as patrol officer, acting detective, sergeant, lieutenant, captain, assistant chief and deputy chief.  He has a bachelor's degree in criminal justice and law enforcement administration from the University of New Haven and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy.

Crowley said he’s proud to be able to promote Smith to deputy chief.

Smith earned his bachelor’s degree from Eastern Connecticut State College, was hired in January 1983, and has served the department in roles including narcotics officer, field training officer, acting detective, acting sergeant and supervisor of the records division. He has been a captain since June 2006, until his promotion to deputy chief on Friday.

“It is a rewarding career. Fulfilling,” he said before the ceremony, of why he continues to serve. “I think most people who enter his profession do it because they feel they can help people and make a difference. I continue to feel that way.”


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