Norwalk Police Chief Retires After Nearly 40 Years Of Service

NORWALK, CT — Police Chief Thomas Kulhawik is retiring after nearly 40 years of service with the Norwalk Police Department, according to city officials.

In an announcement Tuesday, Mayor Harry Rilling said Tuesday marked Kulhawik's last day as chief, however his official retirement date is Jan. 4.

"Chief Kulhawik has done a remarkable job leading the Norwalk Police Department," Rilling said in a news release, "and his rise through the ranks during his nearly forty-year career in the department is a testament to his hard work and dedication to protecting the community."

Rilling also noted Kulhawik will continue to serve as commissioner on the Commission for Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, to which he was appointed in 2020.

He also plans to continue to volunteer as treasurer for Norwalk PAL and serve as a mentor for a student at Brien McMahon High School.

"We have been fortunate to have a police chief whose leadership style values fairness, respect and love for the residents of Norwalk," Rilling said. "As a result of his commitment to Norwalk, he has elevated the department to a higher level and leaves behind a legacy of devotion and courage. I thank him for his service and wish him the best in all his future endeavors and a well-deserved retirement."

Kulhawik was appointed as chief in the summer of 2012 and has served with the department since 1983. He began his career as a patrol officer and was promoted to detective in 1987, sergeant in 1995, lieutenant in 2000 and deputy chief in 2007.

"I have been blessed to have had an amazing career," Kulhawik said in a news release. "I owe so much to the city, its residents, as well as the mayors and police commissioners that I have served who have always supported me and the department. I have always been guided by my faith to try and do the right thing regardless of the consequences. I have always worked to act in the best interests of the community and the department while keeping the best interests of the officers at heart. I'm proud of all that we have accomplished, and I know the department will be in good hands moving forward."