Paramus Officials Wish Retiring Police Chief Brock Well

Paramus officials wish Police Chief Christopher Brock good luck in his retirement as the 29-year veteran of the department prepares for his departure effective June 1.

"We're grateful for all the years he has given us and I'm sure he'll continue to be an active and involved member of this community," said Councilwoman Maria Elena Bellinger, police commissioner. She said he has had a great run with Paramus and is sad to see him go.

Brock has served as chief of police for the past two years, having been sworn in February 2011. He had previously served as acting chief and captain of the department.

"For the last 32 years I have enjoyed my career and I've met many amazing officers and people," Brock told Patch.

He spent 29 years with the Paramus Police Department.  Prior to that was with the River Edge Police Department for three years before he transfered to Paramus.

Brock says he knew since he was a teenager he wanted to go into law enforcement.

"I always felt that the greatest thing about being a police officer was being able to help people who were in need of help. I'm sure I'll miss that the most after I retire," the chief said.

Brock served as acting Chief when Police Officer Rachel Morgan was shot making a traffic stop in early February 2011. The night he was sworn in as permanent chief, he received a surprise visit from Morgan who was there to greet him at the ceremony, just one week after her release from the hospital.

Also in his time as Chief, Brock spent 10 weeks in Virginia in an FBI training program specifically designed for law enforcement leaders.

Mayor Richard LaBarbiera told Patch early Tuesday he wishes Chief Brock good luck in his retirement. The PBA 186 posted a message on behalf of Brock on its website wishing him well in his retirement and future endeavors.

Tuesday night borough officials swore in Kenneth Ehrenberg as Deputy Chief of Police, a decision that was made at the last council meeting.

As for the future leader of the department, the mayor stated that promoting Captain Kenneth Ehrenberg puts the department "in good position to transfer power" when Brock's retirement begins.