WILMINGTON, MA — Wilmington Police Chief Joe Desmond and Deputy Chief Brian Pupa were sworn into their new roles in a ceremony at the Public Safety Building on Tuesday afternoon.
“These two fine gentlemen have ascended to the pinnacle of law enforcement here in Wilmington,” Selectman Chair Greg Bendel told the crowd. “It’s a proud moment for our entire community to have two of our native sons who grew up here and are now serving us in their new capacities. I can’t think of two better guys to lead our department.”
“I really believe they’re going to make a good team,” added Town Manager Jeff Hull, who stressed both will continue to place an emphasis on substance abuse and mental health. “They will also continue to be engaged in community policing [in a variety of ways]. I’m very proud and honored to have made these appointments.”
Community Liaison Officer Paul Chalifour, who emceed the ceremony, noted that Desmond and Pupa bring nearly a combined half century of law enforcement experience and leadership.
Town Clerk Tina Touma-Conway administered the oaths of office, then both men took a turn at the microphone.
“This is certainly a great accomplishment. I’m very honored to be in this position, working with a great group of men and women,” Deputy Chief Brian Pupa announced. “I’ve been fortunate to be an officer and rise through the ranks in this town. Wilmington is a great community… I look forward to serving in this position.”
“You cannot have a successful career in public safety without the help of your family. You miss a lot — cookouts, holidays, etc. When they’re going to bed, you’re getting up to go to work. It’s very difficult,” Chief Joe Desmond said during his remarks. “To the men and women of this department, I’m not here to drastically change anything. Nothing needs to be fixed. We’re here to support you and the incredible job you already do.”
Pupa and Desmond thanked their past and present colleagues, including former Deputy Chief Robert Richter and former Chief Michael Begonis. Each man also thanked their families. Their wives received bouquets.
Watch the swearing-in ceremony below, courtesy of the Wilmington Police Department’s Facebook page:
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