Chief of Police James Heavey announced on Friday the retirement of Detective Jeffrey Stempien, after 34 years of service with the Greenwich Police Dept.
A former special police officer with the Town of Greenwich, Jeffrey Stempien was sworn in as a full-time Greenwich Police Officer on July 29, 1983. He graduated from the 173rd Class of the Connecticut Municipal Police Basic Police Academy. During his career, he was assigned to several different positions including: Patrol, Accident Car, Marine Section, and Detective Division, He also served for 7 years as a member of the Department’s Special Response Unit (SRU).
Detective Stempien thrived as a detective. He investigated and closed numerous cases. He was named Officer of the month and Officer of the Year for two of his investigations. In March 2003, Detective Stempien was the recipient of the prestigious Lions Club Dr. John A. Clarke Award. Detective Stempien was chosen for this award by the Chief of Police for exceptional performance in the line of duty. This award stemmed from Detective Stempien’s investigation and arrest of a subject that had committed a homicide.
In addition to many departmental commendations for his police work and investigations, Detective Stempien received numerous letters and calls from Greenwich residents expressing appreciation and gratitude for his drive, compassion and professionalism.
“Jeff began his Police career as a volunteer officer and continued to serve the town for 34 years,” said Chief Heavey. “Jeff has served the Town and has safeguarded residents with his thorough investigations and arrests of dangerous individuals. We wish Jeff the best with his retirement, but I am also pleased that he has chosen to continue his service for the Town of Greenwich by electing to be a sworn Special Police Officer.”
Detective Stempien was sworn in on Friday as a Special Officer in a ceremony at Town Hall.
The chief normally issues sworn officers their badges, but on this occasion, Detective Stempien’s son, Michael, a Stamford Police Detective, issued the badge to his father.