New Deputy Police Chief Appointed In Hamden

HAMDEN, CT — Hamden Police Captain Timothy F. Wydra has been appointed Deputy Police Chief pending approval by the Legislative Council, Mayor Lauren Garrett announced Thursday.

Wydra has served the Hamden Police Department for the past 29 years as officer, detective, sergeant, lieutenant, and captain.

“Captain Wydra is a highly accomplished law enforcement leader with an incredible wealth of experience,” according to a news release from the Mayor’s Office. “He has a proven track record as SWAT Team Commander, Hostage Negotiation Unit Commander, Field Training Officer Program Coordinator, Active Shooter Instructor, and Less Lethal Instructor.”

Wydra received his Associate of Science with High Honors in Criminal Justice – Law Enforcement Administration from the University of New Haven in 2006, and went on to receive his Bachelor of Science with Honors in Public Safety Administration from Charter Oak State College in 2013. He also attended the F.B.I. National Academy, 242nd Session, in 2010.

“Captain Wydra understands the importance of being an active partner to our diverse community and prioritizes relationship building and effective communication with 24-hour accessibility,” the news release states. “He is a strong advocate of community-oriented policing, as well as evidence-based and data-driven policing strategies. Captain Wydra is committed to the responsible management of financial resources and fostering an atmosphere of inclusion with a team-oriented approach with staff members.”

Wydra will become deputy police chief once his appointment is approved by the Legislative Council.