Daniel O’Connell Named Winchester Police Chief

WINCHESTER, MA — Daniel O'Connell will permanently take over as Winchester's new police chief.

O'Connell is a 21-year veteran with the Winchester Police Department and has been serving as interim police chief since Chief Peter MacDonnell announced his intention to retire in January.

“Dan stood out for his extensive knowledge of the department and proven leadership skills as the Officer-In-Charge for the past four and a half years,” said Winchester Town Manager Lisa Wong. “I have confidence that he will guide the Police Department through the many challenges that lie ahead.”

O’Connell came to the Winchester Police Department in 2000 as a patrolman. He was promoted to sergeant in 2008 and then detective lieutenant in 2012. He has served as the lieutenant-in-charge since 2016, which is second in command to the police chief. O’Connell has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Saint Anselm College in New Hampshire along with trainings and certifications in computer forensics, network administration and security.

“Thank you to Town Manager Lisa Wong for appointing me to the position of Police Chief for the Town of Winchester” O’Connell said. “I will continue forward with the positive steps taken by my predecessors in making the Winchester Police Department, a police department that both officers and citizens alike can be proud of.”