Crime & Safety

Malden Police Officer Retiring After Long And Storied Career

McKay was born and raised in Malden.

MALDEN, MA — A longtime member of the police department is retiring after more than four decades in law enforcement, bringing to a close a career that spanned generations of policing in the city.

Officer George MacKay, the department's senior-most patrol officer, recently retired after 41 years in law enforcement, according to the Malden Police Department. Throughout his career, MacKay served as a steady presence within the Patrol Division, responding to calls for service while working alongside multiple generations of officers.

Before becoming a sworn officer, MacKay spent 32 years as a Malden Police cadet. The lifelong Malden resident grew up in the city's Edgeworth neighborhood before beginning his law enforcement career.

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Police officials said MacKay experienced nearly every aspect of police work during his four decades on the job, remaining a trusted colleague through both challenging and memorable moments.

"Through it all, he remained a steady presence, a trusted teammate, and someone who always knew how to lighten the mood," the department said in a statement.

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During his career, he responded to numerous significant incidents, including helping arrest an armed suspect following a report of shots fired in Malden in 2021 alongside Sergeant Peter Mitchell.

MacKay's final day with the department was marked by a luncheon attended by members of his platoon and colleagues from across the department. According to police, the gathering included a surprise visit from his wife, Lisa, who joined officers in celebrating the conclusion of his law enforcement career.

The retirement marks the end of one of the department's longest-serving patrol careers. Officers with more than four decades of service often witness significant changes in policing, technology, department operations, and the communities they serve while providing continuity and institutional knowledge for younger officers entering the profession.

The department thanked MacKay for his dedication to the city and his years of service.

"While you will always be part of the MPD family, we will miss your stories, your sense of humor, and your outlook on life," the department said.

See Also:

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