Norwich residents Meet and Greet the new Norwich Police Chief. (A photo essay and short story)

And as an added bonus get to say thanks to two valuable members of the Police department.

A warm welcome to the new chief

The room appears to be set up socially distanced as residents start to arrive.

Friends and previous co workers of our new chief were on hand as well

And some meeting and greeting going on as well

On November 29, 2022 the Norwich Police Department held and open house open to members of the Norwich Community, neighboring agencies, and staff of the Town of Norwich.  The chief of police along with his team listened to several concerns from members of the community as well as just saying hello. Chief Wade Cochran felt strongly about meeting and speaking with members of the community. 

Norwich Police chief Wade Cochran speaks to the audience of well wishers.

The new Chief attended Champlain College and received his degree in Criminal Justice.  He started his career in law enforcement with the Hardwick Police Department as a patrol officer, then moved to Barre City Police Department.  After a period of time Wade was offered a position with the Montpelier Police Department.  While at the Montpelier Police Department he worked his way through the ranks, holding the rank of Corporal, Sergeant, Detective Sergeant and a short-term acting Chief.  Wade also held a position with the Vermont Drug Task Force and then the Federal Bureau of Investigation violent crimes task force.  After seventeen years with the Montpelier Police Department Wade felt it was time to lead his own team from a Chief of Police position.  The small-town atmosphere of Norwich was of great interest to him.

Arlo and Milo read a presentation from their Kindness art project that was done at the Children’s Art Studio with the guidance of their instructor Miss Lani.

And the poster is displayed

I do believe this poster says it all

I guess this is what community policing is all about ( I do believe that Arlo and Milo may think so also.)

At the open house Officer Anna Ingraham, who has been with the Norwich Police Department for 7 years but has been in Law Enforcement for 11years was also present to meet and greet citizens as well as answer questions.  Officer Ingraham worked for over 6 months as Officer in Charge being the only officer to answer calls of service for the town.  Judith Powell, administrative assistant, who has been with the police department for over 14 years was also in attendance.  Judy and Anna received gifts of appreciation for their service and dedication to the town.

Norwich Lion’s Club president Fran De Gasta makes a presentation to Officer Anna Ingraham on behalf of the Norwich Women’s club and the Norwich Lions club.

Annette Brown, President of the Norwich Women’s Club presents Anna and Judy with a nice box of chocolates

Officer Ingraham proudly displays her Certificate of Appreciation

Just a small glimpse of the crowd after the presentation as people were on the move and just milling around, and a moment of reflection for the chief.

And now a healthy conversation with some residents and staff as his daughter looks on

The open house was cosponsored by the Norwich Woman’s club and the Norwich Lions Club along with some well coordinated efforts and assistance from Judith Powell.  The event was well attended with over 75 residents between 5pm and 7pm, according to my sources.

Photo credits for this story go to Annette Brown, Gary De Gasta  and Demo Sofronas