After nearly two and a half years as the city’s top cop, Lebanon police chief Bret Fisher will retire from the Lebanon Police Department on April 4, Mayor Sherry Capello announced on Wednesday, March 12.
Fisher was named acting chief in October 2022 following the retirement of former chief Todd Breiner, and was officially named chief of the force at a City Hall ceremony on Jan. 27, 2023. Fisher has been with the force for 27 years.
Read More: Bret Fisher named Lebanon city police chief; Eric Sims promoted to captain
In a statement, Capello said Fisher stepped into the role during a time of immense grief and hardship for the department following the March 31, 2022, line-of-duty death of Lebanon police Lt. William Lebo.
“At the time of his appointment, I noted that the department would need a special team of leaders to support our officers and their families as they navigated the aftermath of such a devastating incident,” said Capello. “Chief Fisher was, without a doubt, that leader. He not only stabilized operations but also became the father figure the department needed, offering unwavering support both professionally and personally.”
Capello said Fisher held each officer accountable, yet was also quick to recognize and celebrate their accomplishments.
“He had a unique ability to have frank, honest conversations about what needed to be done while also providing genuine praise for the hard work and achievements of our officers,” she said.
Capello said Fisher will be involved in a thorough search process for his successor involving “both internal and possibly external candidates.” She added that she has full confidence in Captain Eric Sims and the department’s lieutenants to maintain operations until the right person is found.
“As we take time to find the right leader for the future, we will ensure this process is thorough, but we will not rush,” said Capello. “I am excited to see where we go from here, knowing that our team is capable and our future is bright.”
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