Seekok Installs New Police Chief

After nearly 30 years in the Seekonk Police Department, Craig Mace reached the top of the chain of command Sunday afternoon when he was installed as chief during a ceremony at Johnson and Whales Inn.

More than 200 guests attended the event, which included a presentation of the colors by the Seekonk Police Honor Guard. Several speakers praised the new chief.

"The board of selectmen knew the right man was in place when Chief Ron Charron announced his retirement, and they acted quickly and correctly," selectmen Chair Francis Cavaco said. "It is very rare to have the perfect candidate in place. Thank you Craig Mace for being willing to serve our town."

Cavaco called Mace a man of "integrity."

Lt. Frank John, who has worked with Mace for 26 years, said the new chief was a "true cop's cop." He said Mace's good work went beyond normal police officer duties, including recent actions such as spending hours caring for a toddler as he waited for child care services to arrive and counseling a troubled young student who had overturned a classroom, while treating him with dignity.

"He's a shining example of what can be accomplished by just doing what is right," John said.

After taking the oath of office, Mace reflected on his joining the force 28 years ago as a special officer and shared his vision for the future.

"As I went through the ranks, I tried to learn as much as possible from my peers, my supervisors and the police chiefs—my mentors," Mace said. "There was much to learn from them and then I had to figure out what was going to work for me."

He said the department faces the challenge of technologically sophisticated criminals who use cellphones and computers. The department has already begun the training to match these advances.

"We have smart, talented officers in our department, and we are ready to move in this direction," he said.

Among those in attendance were Mace's wife Linda as well as his parents June and Harvey. He called his wife his best friend and said his parents, as well as other members of his large family, taught him about "caring and respect by instruction and example."