Walsh sworn in as Norwalk Deputy Police Chief

NORWALK, Conn. — James Walsh was formally promoted to Norwalk Police Deputy Chief on Thursday in a ceremony held in police headquarters.

“It’s always nice when you have an opportunity to promote … from within the ranks of the department,” Mayor Harry Rilling said before administering the oath, calling Walsh “highly respected.”

Video by Harold Cobin at end of story

Walsh replaces former Deputy Chief Ashley Gonzalez, who left Norwalk to become a police chief in Texas.

“Deputy Chief Walsh started his career with the Norwalk Department of Police Service on July 7, 1988,” a press release said. “He has had several assignments over his career to include the Patrol Division, Marine Unit, Community Police Unit, Statewide Narcotics Task Force, Special Services Division, Detective Bureau, Honor Guard and Emergency Services Unit Tactical Response Team. Deputy Chief Walsh was named the Norwalk Department of Police Service Officer of the Year in 2005 and 2012 and received numerous commendations and awards throughout his career. Deputy Chief Walsh holds a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Sacred Heart University and resides in Norwalk with his wife and children.”

“It’s nice to see somebody rewarded for doing a lot of good work for a lot of years, and being recognized for it,” Chief Thomas Kulhawik said.

“It makes me proud as a Commissioner to be able to promote someone like this,” Police Commissioner Charlie Yost said. “Who’s got the courage, the professionalism, the integrity, as you do, all the officers in this department.”