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Roche, who started his career as a patrol officer in Ridgefield in 1980, announced his retirement from the force, effective as of Friday, Aug. 24. He began his career in Ridgefield as a patrol officer after graduating from the Morris County Police Academy in 1979. He also served as an officer in Rockaway, New Jersey.
Roche’s career started off with a bang, as he acted as the spokesperson for his graduating class and he received a Certificate of Merit for what he accomplished during his time at the academy. During his lone year in Rockaway, he also received two commendations for his services.
Second in his class at the Connecticut Police Academy, Roche was appointed to the Detective Division in 1983. He was promoted to sergeant in 1986 and lieutenant in 1990. He subsequently achieved the rank of captain in 1991 and major in 1999. In 2008 he was named the department’s fifth chief of police. He was Ridgefield’s officer of the year in 1983 and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy.
“The men and women of the department will miss Chief Roche’s leadership,” his colleagues said. “The Chief was in the forefront of progressive law enforcement practices. He was instrumental in updating the department’s technology and procedures to enhance our ability to perform at a high level. He is leaving an incredible legacy and we wish the Chief and his family the best.”
In a post on Facebook, members of the Ridgefield Police Department praised Roche for his service over more than three decades.
“You were a first-class chief and are a first class gentleman. Thank you for the leadership, the dedication and the pride that you showed every day. You are a man who we all look up to and a man who we all have learned from. The men and women of the Ridgefield Police Department are honored to have worked with/for you. Congratulations on your retirement. Chief Roche, we salute you.”
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