Nashua Gets A New Police Chief: Watch

NASHUA, NH — Michael Carignan, a Nashua Police Department employee with a month shy of 26 years of service with the department, is the city's new police chief. Carignan was sworn in on Thursday in front of police co-workers and colleagues from neighboring communities, including Hudson and Merrimack, city officials, family, and friends. Carignan replaces Andrew Lavoie who announced his retirement in April after 32 years with the force.

James Tollner, a commissioner with the Nashua Police Commission, performed the swearing in ceremony.

Tollner commended Carignan, who was born and raised in the Gate City, for moving up the ranks after joining the force in September 1993, working as a patrol officer and then, the Problem Oriented Policing Unit. He was named a sergeant in 2005, one of his most rewarding experiences working with as both an operations bureau supervisor, narcotics division, and criminal investigations detective. He was promoted to lieutenant in 2009. Carignan was promoted to captain in 2012, and deputy chief in 2014.

Carignan holds bachelor's and master's degrees in criminal justice and serves on a number of boards including Marguerites Place, Nashua Police Athletic League and My Brother’s Keeper.

Carignan thanked those in attendance for coming to the event and for doing everything they could to lead him on the path to a career in law enforcement and now, police chief for his hometown.

"Every person in this room – as well as people who may not have been able to make it – are responsible for me being here today," Carignan said. "Your support, your mentorship, and your leadership, have all taught me lesson on how to be successful."

Carignan told members of the force that he would work every day to ensure that they were able to return home safely to their families and would never betray their trust. He added that they would be trained properly and would be treated as family, while he would work to preserve their physical and mental health.

To elected officials and residents, he stressed that the department would work to find the most professional, dedicated, and educated police officers available to serve the city.

"You will always be able to call us for help when needed," Carignan said, adding that he would be accessible to the community.

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