Michael Lombardo Named Wilton's New Police Chief

There's a new chief in town, but his face will probably look mighty familiar.

Acting Police Chief Michael Lombardo is slated to permanently assume the role on Oct. 15, replacing former Chief Edward Kulhawik who retired earlier this summer. He was one of two internal candidates considered by the Wilton Police Commission.

"Michael Lombardo was the right person for the job, based on his professional experience and qualifications, his temperament and demeanor, and inclusive management style," a press release from the commission read.

According to the release, Lombardo has been with the Wilton PD for 28 years, beginning as a Patrol Officer in 1981 and serving "in almost every conceivable capacity, including as a Detective; as a Patrol Lieutenant, Training Lieutenant and Lieutenant in the Detective Bureau; Operations Captain; and most recently as Acting Chief of Police." Lombardo has also served as member of the Underage Drinking Task Force, and as the Department's Public Relations Officer.

The Police Commission said it had considered conducting an external search for the position, but found that it had two well-qualified candidates within its own ranks. A lengthy interview and consideration process followed, which entailed personnel record reviews, input from town officials and the public, and what the release termed other "due diligence."

Lombardo will officially take his post next month, though he has already been filling the role since Kulhawik's departure. He holds two degrees in the field, as well: a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice from Sacred Heart University and a Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Boston University.