William Brooks III, a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience from the Norwood, Westwood, and Wellesley police departments, has been announced as the new Chief of the Norwood Police Department.
This appointment follows the impending retirement of Chief Bartley King in April, as announced by General Manager John Carroll in a statement presented at Tuesday’s Selectmen’s meeting.
During the meeting on January 31, Selectman Bill Plasko lauded Brooks as a “policeman’s policeman” and highly qualified for the role. The decision was reached after a comprehensive review by a committee, which included police chiefs from other towns and retired Norwood Police Chief George DiBlasi.
Currently serving as the Deputy Police Chief in Wellesley since 2000, Brooks previously held the position of Detective Sergeant with the Norwood Police Department for 14 years. His law enforcement career also includes a stint as a patrolman with the Westwood Police Department from 1977 to 1982. Furthermore, he has been an instructor with the Municipal Police Training Committee since 1985.
The Selectmen expressed satisfaction with the appointment, with Selectman Helen Abdallah-Donohue noting the abundance of qualified candidates, including those from within the Norwood Police Department. Selectman Allan Howard highlighted the widespread support for Brooks within the department, as evidenced by discussions with patrolmen who hoped for his appointment during a strike at CertainTeed.
“I’m very encouraged by the fact that that many police officers support (Brooks) being the new chief,” Howard said.
While officially announced in Norwood on January 31, Brooks’ appointment was disclosed a day earlier at the Wellesley Selectmen meeting, where members conveyed unanimous support, praising Norwood’s choice as the “right guy” for the job. Wellesley Police Chief Terrence Cunningham commended Brooks’ integrity, describing him as “absolutely incredible.”
Brooks, honored with the Associate Member of the Year by the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the New England Narcotics Officers Association, will assume the role of Norwood Police Chief on May 1. Until then, Chief Bartley King will continue his duties.
General Manager John Carroll acknowledged Chief Bartley King’s exemplary 14-year service, noting his outstanding contributions to Norwood and expressing the community’s gratitude for his dedication.
(George Curtis, Norwood Historical Society)
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