Nashua Police Chief Rourke To Step Down In March 2027, Police Commission Says

NASHUA, NH — Nashua police commissioners announced that Chief Kevin Rourke will retire effective March 1, 2027, ending a 31-year career in law enforcement.

Rourke has led the Nashua Police Department for the last five years.

During his tenure, the department introduced the Co-Responder Program and the Peer Support Wellness Unit. The department also reinstated the Traffic Enforcement Unit, which handles traffic concerns within the city, while also overseeing numerous employee-based initiatives.

Under Rourke's leadership, the Nashua Police Department received a perfect score from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies for Advanced Accreditation. Commissioners said those efforts left the department in a strong position as the city prepares for a leadership change.

Officials Offer Congratulations

Several city officials offered comment about Rourke's announcement.

Commissioner James Tollner said, “He is a leader who has demonstrated care, concern, and focus to all staff, whether uniformed officers or civilians. His manner was the same when engaging with members of the public. He has left the department in a solid position as we move forward.”

Mayor Jim Donchess called Rourke a strong leader and a great chief of police.

“I have enjoyed working with him,” he said. “We will miss Chief Rourke, but I believe Chief Rourke has mentored others in the department who are well qualified to become Nashua’s next Chief.”

Alderwoman Lori Wilshire said, “Chief Rourke has led a successful career and has been a great leader in our city. His presence will be missed.”

Marylou Blaisdell also praised Rourke's work downtown, saying he met with businesses and advocated for a dedicated downtown officer.

“Chief Rourke has always taken time to sit with businesses downtown and work with us on any issues we were facing,” she said. “He advocated for a dedicated officer downtown, which has made a difference downtown. The officers he assigned to downtown have worked with everyone downtown, always treating all people with dignity; this reflects the strong leadership he demonstrates. Chief Rourke has been great for downtown and Nashua; we wish him well on his retirement.”

The police commission thanked Rourke for his years of service and it will begin the process of selecting a new chief of police.