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Date: 1/7/2021
EAST?LONGMEADOW – Mark Williams, a 21-year veteran of the Greenfield Police Department (GPD), wasn’t looking for a new job but, as of Jan. 15, he will be the new East Longmeadow Police Chief.
“It was a very emotional decision,” Williams said, “But it was time to step up. It was the right time to spread my wings.”
Williams worked his way up in the GPD, from officer to the detective bureau, to sergeant, to his current role as deputy chief. While there he developed experience with financial crime and identity theft investigations. Williams is also the commanding officer of the Franklin County Regional Special Response Team, and a lead instructor for the Municipal Police Training Committee in the areas of sexual assault investigations and domestic violence response.
Williams had heard of the opening from a friend in the East Longmeadow area. Though he was not initially interested in moving out of the GPD, he mentioned it to Greenfield Police Chief Robert H. Haigh, Jr., whom he considers a friend. The chief encouraged him to look into it.
Williams said Town Manager Mary McNally was understanding that the move would be a big change for Williams and his family. That understanding made him more comfortable with taking the position, he said.
The incoming chief talked about some of the things he believes he can bring to East Longmeadow.
“I think I can bring some changes and advancements,” Williams said, specifically around newer technology that he has had experience with. He also said that he is looking forward to hearing from officers and residents alike about the needs that exist in town.
“I’m an outsider, I have to earn the trust of the officers. I want to help everybody reach their career goals.” Mentoring, Willams said, is among the most important duties for a chief.
“I think I bring a very strong history of collaboration,” with community services, mental health services and addiction services, he added. Williams told Reminder Publishing about the importance of empathy within the police force. “I want the police to be partners. I believe in accountability.”
He continued, “I am grateful for the opportunity and the privilege. I’m really looking forward to getting to know the people. The people set the mandate.”