Dighton police chief retires after 43 years of service

DIGHTON, Mass. (WLNE) — The Dighton Police Department announced that their police chief has retired Friday.

Former Chief Robert MacDonald served 43 years of service. The Dighton native began his career as a police officer in 1980. He then was appointed chief in 2004.

On Wednesday, MacDonald was presented with a Proclamation and Certificate of Recognition.

“On behalf of the entire Dighton community, I would like to thank Chief MacDonald for his many years of dedicated, selfless service to the Dighton Police Department and the Town of Dighton,” Town Administrator Michael Mullen said. “Through his tireless work within the community, he has continued to push the town forward and build upon the professionalism and excellence of our police department. We wish him a very happy and healthy retirement.”

Lt. Shawn Cronin as appointed the next chief, starting Monday. He was sworn in Wednesday in a ceremony and badge pinning.

“I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Chief MacDonald for the majority of my career, watching him successfully lead out department and learning from him as I went,” said Chief Cronin.