Decorated Greenwich Police Officer Retires After 36 Years Of Service

GREENWICH, CT — Deputy Chief James Bonney has retired from the Greenwich Police Department after 36 years of service.

"DC Bonney, who was sworn in as a Patrol Officer on September 18, 1990, leaves a legacy that has touched so many areas of the Department," police said in a social media post.

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The department highlighted some of Bonney's accomplishments, noting he managed the implementation of a state-of-the-art Emergency Dispatch Center, which was completed in 2024.

His grant-writing efforts helped the department procure its first drone and enhance its marine operations, including updates to patrol vessels that help protect boaters and about 30 miles of coastline. Bonney also coordinated many of the department's Honor Guard activities and became a sought-after Honor Guard bagpiper for special community events.

"DC Bonney's enthusiasm, knowledge, and professionalism enabled him to excel in many different assignments during his career," the department added.

When Bonney was sworn in as deputy chief in 2025, he assumed responsibility of several civilian staffs, including Support Services, General Services Section and Parking Services.

He has also had supervisory roles in every division of the police department. Bonney became a sergeant in 1999, patrol lieutenant in 2012, detective lieutenant in 2014, and captain in 2020 before being named deputy chief last year.

Bonney's career includes numerous awards and commendations, including recognition for apprehending suspects in several bank robberies, water rescues, responses to medical distress calls, and serious traffic accident investigations, the department said.

In 2002, Bonney was named the Silver Shield Association Officer of the Year for swimming out to an unresponsive boater, bringing the boat to shore, activating 911 emergency response, and administering CPR until medical personnel could arrive.

"GPD extends heartfelt appreciation and thanks to DC Bonney for his unwavering dedication, years of service, and a job well done," the department said.

First Selectman Fred Camillo, who serves as the town's police commissioner and has worked with Bonney on the Board of Selectmen on parking matters in town, recognized Bonney in a social media post of his own.

"Solid career, great guy, and even better person!" Camillo wrote on Facebook. "Best of luck in the new role, Chief, and thank you!"