Politics & Government

Shelton Swears In New Deputy Police Chief

Shelton police recently swore in a new deputy chief, a position in town that has been left vacant for a number of years.

Shelton police recently swore in a new deputy chief, a position in town that has been left vacant for a number of years.
Shelton police recently swore in a new deputy chief, a position in town that has been left vacant for a number of years. (Al Branch/Patch)

SHELTON, CT — A new deputy chief for the Shelton Police Department was sworn in this month, filling a position in town that has been left vacant for a number of years.

Mayor Mark Lauretti and Police Chief Shawn Sequeira swore in Kevin Stratton, a former Connecticut State Police officer with over 25 years of experience, during a ceremony held Sept. 14 at City Hall.

"I'm happy to say that we have someone, I think, that has risen to the occasion," Lauretti said during the ceremony, "and will fulfill the duties to the best of his abilities, beyond his abilities."

Find out what's happening in Shelton-Derbyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Stratton joined the Shelton Police Department after retiring as a state police officer. After serving the city for four years, he is eager to step in his new role as deputy chief, according to the city's Facebook page.

Lauretti noted Stratton received numerous accolades throughout his time as a state police officer.

Find out what's happening in Shelton-Derbyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

"The state of Connecticut does an awesome job in investing in state police personnel in this state and it shows, and it's worth it," Lauretti said. "Now we are becoming a recipient of all of the efforts that the state has put in through Kevin Stratton, and it's my pleasure and my honor to present him with [his] badge."

Stratton, who attended the ceremony with his family, said he was eager to continue serving the city and its residents in his new position.

"I'm absolutely amazed at the showing that I have tonight," Stratton said, "and it just shows the support I'm going to get from the Shelton Police Department. I come here with experience from the state police. It's not a retirement job for me, it's another career, and I look forward to serving you all."

He also stressed that he will institute an open door policy and support his co-workers in any way possible.

"I always have that open door policy," Stratton said, "and anything I can do to make your job easier and better, and make you great leaders in the future, I'm here to help you and support you."

Photos and a video of the ceremony can be viewed on the city's Facebook page.

Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.