A proclamation was presented in the City of Hartford, proclaiming Scott MacFarlan Day on February 20. 

Chief MacFarlan will officially step away, into retirement.  

He has been the chief of police since February 11, 2020. MacFarlan has served his entire career in law enforcement with the Hartford Police Department.

"I think thirty years is a good run," MacFarlan told WTKM. "I did enjoy my time here. I was able to wear a lot of different hats through the years, I did a lot of different things. It's been a pleasure to work for the department and the city."                                                        

MacFarlan started as a patrol officer. He was then promoted to detective, where he served for three years before stepping into an administrative lieutenant position.

MacFarlan told WTKM that his time with former Hartford Police Chief Dave Groves proved to be valuable with his development as a long-time member of their Senior Command Staff.

City of Hartford Mayor Dennis Regan told WTKM that the City of Hartford has been fortunate with the leadership of the police department.

"Hartford has been lucky, we have been blessed with a bunch of good police chiefs over the years. It says a lot about how they are able to develop strong leaders, while serving our community."                       

Hartford City Administrator Steve Volkert announced that Captain Rich Thickens of the Hartford Police Department was approved as the new City of Hartford Police Chief.