KENT—For more than a decade, Resident Trooper Andrew Fisher was “truly what community policing was all about” in Kent, according to former First Selectman Jean Speck.
Fisher was recently reassigned, succeeded by Trooper Vicki Donohoe.
More than 40 residents gathered Jan. 25 at town hall to bid him farewell.
“He had his finger on the pulse of the town and understood the importance of—and was great at—building relationships and connecting with all our residents,” Speck reminisced following the recent event.
“Most people thought his duties ended when he went home for the day, but that was not the case with Andrew—he made sure I was informed on cases I needed real-time visibility on, 24/7/365, and I am grateful for his commitment and dedication to our town,” she said.
Fisher served under three first selectmen during his time in town, the first being Bruce Adams, who recalled, “I interviewed Andrew when he was first assigned to Kent and felt he was a ‘good fit.’”
“He has an easy-going style but can play hardball, when necessary, although I have never seen him when he needed to,” he said. “He came into the job after the program had been cut for a few years and made an important contribution to the trust of the community in the resident trooper program.”
Current First Selectman Marty Lindenmayer worked with Fisher for only a few months, but said, “Andrew has been an icon in Kent for 11 years and a friend to all of us as he took care of the safety and security of our town. We all wish him the very best in his future endeavors.”
Fisher received a number of gifts, including from the town government, Club Getaway, the Kent Volunteer Fire Department, the National Park Service for his help at Bulls Bridge scenic area, and Ivail Agli, who proudly presented a heartfelt, handmade expression of thanks to the officer.
While he may be leaving town, Fisher said, “I’m going to still be around watching everybody. I have three-and-a-half years left with the State Police.”
Refreshments for the festivities were provided by 45 on Main.
