Officer Robert Smurlo has retired from the Greenwich Police Dept after 20 years of service to the town.
Prior to joining the Greenwich Police Dept, Officer Smurlo worked in Traffic Engineering for the Town of Greenwich Dept of Public Works and received an associate degree in Criminal Justice.
In July 2002, he started his career with the Greenwich Police Department and attended the 292nd training session of the Connecticut Police Officer Standards and Training Council.
Officer Smurlo’s career included assignments as a Patrol Officer, K-9 Officer, and Bike Officer.
In 2012, Chief James Heavey appointed Smurlo to the Department’s K-9 Unit. Officer Smurlo and his partner Altos graduated from the Connecticut State Police Canine Academy in February 2013.
After serving as the Department’s K-9 Officer, Officer Smurlo served the Town while being assigned to the Midnight Shift.
In 2020, Officer Smurlo was assigned to the newly formed Bike Unit, assigned to the Central Business District, where his experience was key in many incidents involving the apprehension of suspects who committed larceny and financial fraud.
Officer Smurlo received numerous citations and awards for his service to the Greenwich community. He was recognized by Mothers Against Drunk Driving, as well as being named Greenwich Police Officer of the Month in 2008.
An example of his service was in June 2021 when he and other officers performed CPR and other life-saving measures on an unconscious person who had no pulse and was not breathing.
Officer Smurlo’s actions were key in the subject regaining a pulse and breathing.
“Rob always did what he was asked with a smile and was proud to serve in the Town he was born and raised,” said Greenwich Police Chief James Heavey, in a statement on Facebook, adding, “His outgoing and energetic personality was key in helping the Department establish a Bike Unit for all of the Central Business District.”
“He made great strides in improving the Department’s communication and built many relationships with the merchants and visitors on Greenwich Avenue,” Heavey added. “His efforts exemplified the core values of the Greenwich Police Department, Service-Respect-Courage-Fairness-Diligence.”
Upon his retirement, Officer Smurlo will continue his public service to the Town of Greenwich as a Special Police Officer.