Stamford Police Department, Community Mourns Loss Of Longtime Officer

STAMFORD, CT — The Stamford Police Department and the greater community is mourning the loss of longtime officer and high school hockey coach Doug Robinson, who died Wednesday night surrounded by his family. He was 60.

Robinson was diagnosed with stage 3 cancer of the parotid gland three years ago, and underwent several treatments and procedures. His cancer later progressed to stage 4.

"Husband, father, officer, coach, mentor, friend; Douglas Robinson touched so many lives through all the hats he wore," SPD Chief Timothy Shaw saidin a news release Thursday.

"Our thoughts, prayers and tears are with his wife Judy and his children James, Casey and Kevin. We ask everyone to keep them in your thoughts and prayers during this trying time."

Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons released a statement on the passing of Robinson on Friday.

"I am saddened to hear about the passing of Officer Douglas Robinson. Officer Robinson dedicated 33 years to serving the city of Stamford and had an incredible career, often going above and beyond the call of duty," Simmons said. "His service to our community extended beyond his work as a police officer and he was committed to mentoring and coaching Stamford youth, touching the lives of so many. Officer Robinson’s family is in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time."

Robinson joined the SPD on March 6, 1989, and continued to serve even after he was diagnosed, according to Shaw.

Robinson worked as a patrol officer early in his career, and was involved in a variety of roles in the department, Shaw said.

He served in the Community Orientated Police Enforcement & Citizens Together (COPE-PACT), Reclaim Our Cities and Connecticut Youth (R.O.C.C.Y), the Stamford Police Department Community Policing Unit, Stamford Police Department Narcotics and Organized Crime Unit (formerly Special Services) and School Resource Officer at Stamford High School.

In addition to his regular duties, Robinson was a member of the SPD's Hostage Negotiation and Crisis Intervention Team.

Robinson's final position was as an investigator in the Special Investigations Juvenile Matters Unit.

"He had an exemplary career and always served with distinction," Shaw said. "Officer Robinson was always calm in the face of any adversity."

Throughout his career, Robinson was honored with several awards.

Of note, he earned the 1998 Bravery Award for stopping an armed robbery in Shippan, and he receieved the Connecticut U.S. Attorney’s Award for Outstanding Performance & Assistance In joint Investigation and Successful Prosecution of Narcotics & Organized Crime Cases through the U.S. Department of Justice.

His work was recognized by the U.S. Customs Board of Parole, Connecticut State Police, Norwalk Police Department, Greenwich Police Department, Danbury Police Department and the Waterbury Police Department.

Not only was Robinson committed to his career, he was committed to the community.

Robinson served as the head coach of the Stamford/Westhill co-op hockey team for 23 years, leading them to a state championship in 2001. He was also a youth hockey coach and a mighty mite basketball coach.

Robinson was a 3rd degree member of the Knights of Columbus, Stamford, Council 41.

Earlier this year, the Stamford Police Association held a fundraiser for Robinson and also started a GoFundMe.

Residents are still donating to the GoFundMe, which has amassed over $33,000 as of Friday morning.

Funeral services for Robinson have not been announced yet.