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Middlebury Police Chief Francis Dabbo’s oldest grandson, Carter Feda, 4, helps him pin on his badge during the ceremony Monday swearing in Dabbo as the town’s new police chief. Bill Stowell, rear, watches with a smile. (Marjorie Needham photos)
Middlebury’s police chief, Francis (Fran) Dabbo, who was sworn in by Town Clerk Edith Salisbury earlier this year, was sworn in by Police Commissioner George Moreira Monday night in a ceremony at Shepardson Community Center. The oldest of Dabbo’s three grandsons, Carter Feda, 4, pinned Dabbo’s badge on his uniform and then got a big hug from Dabbo.
Town officials, including First Selectman Edward B. St. John, Selectman Elaine Strobel, Salisbury and Tax Collector Jean Dawes, joined Dabbo’s family and friends at the event. Police officers and police chiefs from nearby towns, including Watertown, Wolcott, Waterbury, Naugatuck and Plymouth stood around the perimeter of the room behind those seated in chairs.
Police Commissioner George Moreira, left, swears in Middlebury Police Chief Francis Dabbo Monday night as Bill Stowell, rear, watches.
Dabbo, in remarks to the audience, spoke about his “rather convoluted” journey to police chief, mentioning his 22 years with the Waterbury Police Department, his teaching at Crosby High School while serving as a reserve officer for Middlebury, his 2-1/2 years as acting chief in Plymouth, Conn., and finally his return to service on the Middlebury Police Department.
“It is an honor and a privilege to serve the town of Middlebury,” Dabbo said. “I thank the Middlebury police officers, Town Hall and the Police Commission for their assistance and support.”
Dabbo said he believes the police chief should be accessible to residents. “I enjoy meeting residents and getting to know them,” he said. “My door is always open.”
Middlebury’s former police chief, James Viadero, said police work is a calling. He said of Dabbo, “He’s a cop’s cop willing to roll up his sleeves and go out and serve from the front.”
St. John said it is a pleasure to work with Dabbo. “He has done a great job in the time he has been here,” he said.
Strobel said, “I’m excited for Fran to be our new police chief. He’s been the acting chief for a while, and he’s done a good job, so this should be an easy transition.”
Middlebury Police Chief Francis Dabbo presents a plaque Monday night to former Police Commission Chairman Ken Heidkamp.
Former Police Commission Chairman Ken Heidkamp also was honored at the ceremony. Dabbo presented him with a plaque for his dedication, service and generosity to the Middlebury Police Department. Heidkamp resigned from the commission because he and his wife are moving to another town.
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