BRISTOL, Conn — There was a change in leadership today in Bristol, as Police Chief Brian Gould said goodbye to the city he’s served for more than 30 years. He’s led the Bristol Police Department through some trying times, including the on-duty murders of Lt. Dustin DeMonte and Sgt. Alex Hamzy on Oct. 12, 2022.
“You’ll know when it’s time. I just felt that inside me. That calling if you will,” remarked Gould on Friday.
He said losing two officers has forever changed him both professionally and personally, saying, “I think it changes your course and outlook on life a little bit and you understand to hold your loved ones a little tighter because you never really know. Definitely life changing for sure.”
During a meet and greet send off at City Hall, Gould was bid farewell by fellow city leaders.
“It’s hard to put into words what Chief Gould has meant to this city,” remarked Bristol Mayor Jeff Caggiano.
Gould also said goodbye to residents and community stakeholders.
“He’s just amazing,” remarked Patricia Stebbins, the founder of Brian’s Angels Homeless Outreach.
She shared a story about the first time she called Gould for help, saying, “I was profusely thanking him for calling me back. I said, 'I’m a nobody,' and, he said, 'You stop right there.' He said, 'Am I speaking to you?' I said, 'You are sir.' (He said), 'You are somebody, don’t do that again.'”
As Gould’s tenure came to a close Friday, the entire department lined the sidewalk outside Bristol police headquarters. Gould gave one final salute, turned toward his department and said, “I love you all.”
“I love the people I serve with. I love the people I serve for. I wanted to go out and leave while I still had that tremendous amount of love,” said Gould.
Deputy Chief Mark Morello will now lead the department in the interim.
“His legacy will always be his leadership and mentorship for every member of the police department here,” said Morello, about Gould.
Morello is a top candidate to become the permanent chief.
RELATED: Bristol man threatens tow truck driver with firearm after nearly crashing into truck: State police
“I think there is a great hunger to make sure that from within the ranks we continue to develop and bring on the next chief,” said Caggiano.
Gould was given a congratulatory citation from the Connecticut General Assembly and a few gifts, but he told FOX61 his greatest gift has been the privilege to serve.
“There’s a lot of great memories, but it’s about being connected with the people who I’ve had the privilege of serving,” said Gould. “This department is on its way to greatness, so it’s going to be a great thing.”
Gould told FOX61 he’s exploring some new opportunities and said to “stay tuned” for his future plans.
Morello, the interim chief, said he’s excited about the future of the Bristol Police Department, including a push for national accreditation, a five-year plan to get a new police headquarters built and the appointment of a community resource officer.
Matt Caron is a reporter at FOX61 News. He can be reached at mcaron@fox61.com. Follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.
Do you have a story idea or something on your mind you want to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at newstips@fox61.com.
----
HERE ARE MORE WAYS TO GET FOX61 NEWS
Download the FOX61 News APP
iTunes: Click here to download
Google Play: Click here to download
Stream Live on ROKU: Add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching FOX61.
Steam Live on FIRE TV: Search ‘FOX61’ and click ‘Get’ to download.