Just days after Mayor Justin Elicker announced the retirement of Chief Otoniel Reyes New Haven’s Police Department – Reyes was appointed Chief of the Department of Public Safety at Quinnipiac University in Hamden, CT.
“I am excited to welcome Tony to the Quinnipiac community,” said Tom Ellett, chief experience officer. “Tony has extensive experience at every level of public safety and community service that will position him for success as chief in a university setting. Tony’s commitment to excellence, fairness, equity, and inclusion in leading the Department of Public Safety aligns well with the university’s values. I look forward to partnering with him and the important role he and his department play in assuring a safe, welcoming, and caring environment for our students.”
Among the responsibilities of Reyes’ new role are developing and implementing policies and procedures advancing safety and well-being on the university’s three campuses; ensuring compliance with all reporting requirements; collaborating with faculty, staff, and students to offer educational programs and public safety services; and serving as a liaison with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.
“The Chief has provided consistent and guiding leadership to our Police Department through one of the most challenging years in recent history”, said Mayor Elicker. “New Haven has been fortunate to benefit from his integrity, strength of character, compassion for the community, and work ethic.”
Born and raised in New Haven; Reyes served on the city’s police department for 21-years.
“I am forever indebted to the residents of the City of New Haven, my coworkers, those lives that I have touched, and all those who have touched me over the past two decades”, said Reyes. “I will continue to be a resident here and spend more time with my family, who have been with me through thick and thin. This job is taxing on the mind, body, and spirit, and I salute all my fellow officers on their tireless work. I will miss you all greatly.”
Reyes will be retiring from his post as chief in the spring. His term as chief ends in January of 2022. The city will be looking for an interim-chief to fill out the remainder of this term.
