Manchester's Police Chief Announces Retirement After 2 Decades

MANCHESTER, NH — After 27 years as a law enforcement officer, Manchester's police chief Allen Aldenberg has decided to retire at the end of next month.

"Serving as a police officer for the City of Manchester has been an absolute privilege," Aldenberg said, in part, in his letter to Mayor Jay Ruais. "I remain confident in the leadership and capabilities of the department to continue the mission of protecting and serving this great city."

Aldenberg began his career in law enforcement in 1998 and was hired by the Manchester Police Department in 2003.

"As I reflect on my career, I am deeply grateful for the support of my fellow officers, the department staff, the city leadership, and the community that I have been fortunate to have served," he said. "I believe that the foundation we have built together will continue to grow, ensuring a bright and safe future for the Queen City."

Aldenberg said that he has "reached a point in life" where he wants to spend more time with his wife Emily and their children. He also expressed a desire for the city leadership to continue to invest in the mental health and wellness of its staff.

"Please remember that the officers and staff of the Manchester Police Department who serve you do so with dedication and courage," he added. " It's easy to point out flaws from the outside, but true progress happens when we all engage in solutions together. Never forget that a law enforcement officer will lay down his/her life in a moment's notice so that others don't have to, and to me there is no more profound commitment."

Ruais issued a statement Monday to congratulate Aldenberg, writing in part that "his journey from patrol officer to chief here in Manchester underscores his unwavering commitment to our city, the safety of our residents and the department he has served so well."

"The city has begun its regular process for hiring to fill this essential position," Ruais said.