Lt Rich Robinson, head of the Newtown Police Department Detective Division, was honored for his retirement from the force after 25 years in a ceremony on December 15.

A large number of officers and members of the public, First Selectman Jeff Capeci, and members of Robinson’s family were in attendance.

Capeci thanked Robinson for his service and said the retirement was “well-deserved.” Capeci asked Robinson if he had any plans for his retirement, and Robinson replied, “not in the near future.”

“If there are no police, there is no safe community,” said Capeci. “We thank you for your service, and enjoy your retirement.”

Police Chief David Kullgren said the day was a chance to celebrate and reflect on a “remarkable career.”

Characterizing a career in law enforcement as one of “sacrifice, commitment, and resilience,” he said that being a police officer is a “journey that changes the lives of those that choose it.” He also noted that it is a sacrifice on the part of the officer’s family.

“[Robinson] began in 1998, and over the years demonstrated commitment to duty and a passion to learn and improve,” said Kullgren.

Kullgren noted that Robinson is a state certified post instructor, has been the department’s IT officer and oversaw the installation of the first laptops in Newtown’s cruisers, attending crime scene technician schools to further expand his expertise, was promoted to sergeant and made a patrol supervisor, and later made commander of technical services. In 2014, he received his master’s degree due to his “dedication to educational advancement.” In 2022, he was named head of the professional standards bureau, which was a “pivotal role.”

“The accreditation program is his going away present to us,” said Kullgren. “We hope his retirement is filled with the joy of accomplishment, the warmth of family, and the knowledge of a job well done.”

Robinson offered his thanks to all the officers who had backed him up over the years.

“There’s never a minute that I’ve been worried since I had you guys,” said Robinson.

Robinson also thanked his family for allowing him to serve.

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Editor Jim Taylor can be reached at jim@thebee.com.