Police Chief

Gavin Keenan, a 28-year veteran of the department, was sworn in Monday evening during the selectmen's meeting by the first justice of Ipswich District Court, Judge Allen Swan. Members of the department and Keenan's family were in attendance.

Town Manager Robert Markel said test results from the Civil Service chief's exam, which Keenan took in May, were received earlier this month showing Keenan as the top scorer.

"The individual who is appointed tonight displays an important quality of leadership," he said.

After taking an oath, Keenan thanked those who have supported his career, including acting Chief Dan Moriarty, who had stepped in since the retirement of former Public Safety Director Charlie Surpitski last fall.

"I am deeply humbled for Mr. Markel expressing his confidence in me," Keenan said.

He went on to acknowledge the exemplary behavior and leadership of officers in the department.

"This is an exciting time for the Ipswich Police Department and I believe we have the finest department on the North Shore," he said.

Keenan the department is a group with much wisdom and compassion and that fully comprehends the duty of public service.

"I am a believer in people," he said, "with such high caliber."

The 25 officers serving the town, Keenan said, will continue to provide citizens with quality service.

"The best interest of the department coincides with the best interest of the community," he said.

Snapping photographs as Keenan took his oath before the crowd were his wife, Josephine, and daughter, Sarah. Keenan thanked his wife who "for 28 years has stood by me giving me nothing but love support and understanding."

Keenan's brother, Denis, a retired firefighter for Logan Airport, said this is a career the new chief has been dedicated to and worked for "all his life."

"I think it's a good match," he said.

Sarah Keenan said it is her father's integrity that will help him serve the community.

"I know that my father really cares a lot about the community and has its best interest in mind," she said.

Keenan's first official action as chief was to give a commendation to Moriarty for his service during the interim.

Though Keenan said it wasn't originally his plan to fill the position when he first joined the department, he said he is happy being able to serve in this community.

"I do love the department and I love being a police officer in my hometown," he said.