New Massachusetts State Police superintendent sworn in
Date: 8/22/2012
By Carley Dangona
carley@thereminder.comWESTFIELD — At Westfield State University (WSU) on Aug. 16, Gov. Deval L. Patrick swore in Col. Timothy P. Alben as superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police (MSP) Department.
"On this day, our dad has given us the good that will last a lifetime," Alben's daughter Caitlin said. "I believe in you — we [Caitlin, Jennifer and Lance Cpl. Tim Alben Jr.] believe in you."
Alben stated, "Public safety is an entitlement of every one of our citizens." He highlighted his goals of a "collective focus" in the department and his intention for its staff to continue being "critical thinkers, problem solvers and innovators," as tools for success in providing safety to residents.
A veteran of more than 30 years, Alben thanked many people for the inspiration and opportunities in his career, including WSU where his "passion for criminal justice was seated in 1981."
"I'd like to thank [Col.] Tom Foley," Alben said. "I learned everything I know about organized crime from him; [Col.] Mark Delaney, a trooper's trooper, who inspired me with his loyalty; and [Col.] Marian McGovern who has always been and will always be a dear friend and mentor."
With tears in his eyes, he cited "a great inspiration for becoming a trooper," as his father Albert, a retired police veteran.
"I've repeatedly received a humbling compliment," Alben said. "Tim, we're really happy for you, but we're even happier for the State Police."
Patrick echoed this sentiment, "He is a fabulous new colonel, for a remarkable agency — the best in America."
As Lt. Col. of the Division of Field Services, Alben managed the emergency response to the 2011 natural disasters in Western Massachusetts. He oversaw large-scale public events, such as The Boston Marathon and the 2004 Democratic National Convention, as former Executive Officer for Tactical Operations. In 1983, he began his career with the MSP as a trooper.
