Chief Ron Madigan Signs Off After 41 Years With Swampscott Police

SWAMPSCOTT, MA — After 41 years in the Swampscott Police Department — including the last 21 as the town's police chief — Ronald Madigan retired on Thursday.

Madigan, who last month said he would be retiring on July 15 at the mandatory age of 65, said at that time: "It has been an honor of a lifetime to serve with so many dedicated men and women who have worn this badge and have worked hard to serve and protect this community."

A "retirement sendoff" was planned for Madigan from 3 to 5 p.m. at Swampscott Town Hall lawn.

Madison released a statement through the department on Thursday about his four decades servig the town.

"A quick look at how fast time goes by," he said. "It feels like yesterday that I first walked my beat on Humphrey Street and today after 41 years, I want to say thank you to the residents of Swampscott for your trust and support throughout the years.

"Thank you to town government and all the committees and boards of the town. This is a great town, with a great police department."

Swampscott police posted a photo of Madigan signing "Over and Out" at the conclusion of his final shift on Thursday with some details on his history with the department starting with his full-time appointment as a "patrolman" in 1982 after he had served as a reserve officer since 1980.

"The department issued him 1-revolver, 12 shells, holster, hat badge #40, shirt badge, small pocket badge, handcuffs & key, Billy club, notebook, box key and a traffic key and was told to 'walk the beat,'" the department posted.

Madigan was promoted to sergeant in 1993, overseeing the criminal investigation unit before he was named a lieutenant in 1998 and captain in 199.

He was appointed acting chief of police in May 2001 and later named full-time chief in 2001.

Madigan is a graduate of Swampscott schools.

"Chief, you have served your community with honor, dedication and selflessness," the department said. "Happy Retirement. Best Wishes from your Family in Blue."

"I feel so fortunate to have worked in my hometown for so many years," Madigan added. "To the men and women of my department, thank you for your continued professionalism, integrity and dedication to the town of Swampscott and its residents.

"It was an honor and pleasure to have served with each of you. I wish you all the best. Stay safe out there."

Swampscott's search for a new permanent chief began in June with a comprehensive recruitment and selection process that the town said will include public dialogue and input from community stakeholders.

Dave Kurz, a senior consultant for Municipal Resources Inc., will serve as interim chief until a permanent successor can be found.

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(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)