Darien Police Receive Commemorative Plaque To Mark Department's 100th Anniversary

DARIEN, CT — Darien police recently received a plaque from the town to commemorate the police department's 100th anniversary.

"Many thanks to the @townofdarienct for presenting the Darien Police Department with this beautiful commemorative plaque recognizing 100 years of service. It is truly our honor to provide and maintain public safety in this community. Thank you," a Facebook post from police said.

The plaque now hangs in the entry to the police department's lobby at 25 Hecker Ave.

"With sincere appreciation, the Town of Darien presents the Darien Police Department with this plaque, commemorating a century of unwavering dedication, sacrifice and commitment to safeguarding the lives and well-being of Darien’s residents and visitors," the plaque reads. "We honor the brave men and women, past and present, who have upheld the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and service to the community. Over the past 100 years, officers have exemplified their motto 'PRIDE IN EXCELLENCE.'"

The names of First Selectman Jon Zagrodzky, Chief of Police Jeremiah P. Marron Jr., and Police Commissioners Kevin M. Cunningham, Brent T. Hayes, and Kimberly D. Huffard are listed on the plaque.

According to the DPD, the department was founded in 1925 when the Connecticut Legislature passed a special act that created the three member Darien Police Commission.

Before the creation of the commission, the town maintained order through elected constables and fines were levied by justices of the peace, according to the department. The first meeting of the Darien Police Commission was held on May 28, 1925.

In June 1925, the first police budget was approved, and it authorized the hiring of a chief of police and six patrolmen.

Sgt. Harry C. Smith of the Stamford Police Department was appointed Darien's first Chief of Police, and Edward A. Tinker of Darien was hired as the new department's first patrol officer. Tinker succeeded Smith as chief of police in Darien.

Read more on the history of the Darien Police Department here.