Portsmouth Police Chief Sent Off To Retirement In Style

PORTSMOUTH, RI — After four decades in law enforcement, Portsmouth Police Chief Thomas Lee was sent off into retirement in style on Thursday. Lee served as the department's chief for six years and has been replaced by Brian Peters.

Lee was celebrated at a walkout ceremony on Thursday, where he he officially turned over command of the department.

"Chief Lee was a great leader and accomplished all of his goals. He will be missed!" the department wrote on Facebook.

Lee announced his retirement on June 6, saying he was incredibly proud of everything the department accomplished during his command.

"Every good leader works on developing and mentoring his subordinates for that this when it's their turn to run the organization," Lee said. "I believe that time has now come. We have many strong young leaders in this agency who can continue driving change in the future and deserve their chance."

The department's new chief, Brian Peters, served as the interim police chief in Bristol after retiring as Portsmouth's deputy chief after 20 years on the job.