(La Porte, IN) - La Porte Police Chief Paul Brettin today announced his retirement.

 

Brettin, who has served on the department for nearly 30 years, will step down as chief on February 5th.  He will remain on the force until May 23rd to offer support and guidance to his replacement.

 

Mayor Tom Dermody said whoever the replacement is will have big shoes to fill.

 

“Under his watch, we have cracked down on drug traffickers and violent offenders, expanded our use of modern technologies, and have made it clear that we are a law-and-order community,” he said.

 

Brettin has been with the La Porte Police Department since 1994 when he started as a civilian desk officer.

 

He later worked in nearly every role at the department, including Field Training Officer, Chief of Detectives, Street Crimes Task Force member, and several other leadership positions.

 

According to the mayor’s office, his accomplishments as chief include more patrols on utility task vehicles and bicycles powered by electric motors, the prioritization of mental health by hiring the city’s first-ever Public Safety Social Worker, increased use of modern technology such as drones, FLOCK license plate readers, and wireless parking enforcement.

 

Brettin also created new units like the Emergency Response Team and the Proactive Crime Team to help combat crime.

 

“It truly has been an honor to serve this community. Though it was a difficult decision, I am comforted by the fact that I leave behind a team of strong, well-trained, professional officers who always give 100 percent,” he said.

 

Dermody said applications for the vacant position will be accepted through January 12th, with Brettin's replacement to be announced on February 5th.