On March 4, during his swearing-in ceremony at City Hall, Newton’s new Police Chief Timothy V. Cohoon observed with a wry tone that “after 30 years in this profession, I’m the new guy again.”
Before the event began, his daughter Isabella (Bella) said, “I’m very proud of my dad and I’m very excited to watch him get sworn in.” Her twin sister Francesca and their mother Tanya Cohoon also expressed their pride and happiness in Cohoon’s new position.
Relieved to hear there is not an overwhelming amount of violent crime in Newton, the new chief’s mother Carol said, “I’m very excited,” when asked about her youngest son’s latest accomplishment.
After audience members took their seats, the Police Gaelic Column of Pipes and Drums played, the Newton Police Honor Guard made the Presentation and Retirement of the Colors, and Rev. Joel Miller gave the invocation before Mayor Marc Laredo swore in Cohoon with his family by his side.
Members of the Police Gaelic Column of Pipes and Drums at the swearing-in of Newton Police Chief Timothy V. Cohoon. (photo: Julie M. Cohen)
Laredo, who worked with former Mayor Ruthanne Fuller to choose Cohoon, told him, “You are in a community where you’ll be supported” and that officials have “complete trust and confidence” in him.
Cohoon, a Marshfield resident, began his tenure as Newton’s 21st police chief on February 23, during a significant snowstorm, and said he is getting to know members of the force and community.
During his speech in front of the packed War Memorial auditorium, the former Braintree Police chief emphasized the importance of partnerships in public safety. State and local political and law enforcement officials along with Cohoon’s family and friends sat in support and listened to his brief words.
“You can’t do this job without help,” he said.
Looking out at the audience to former Chief George McMains, Cohoon said, “Keep your phone on – I’ve got you on speed dial.” He also thanked other former Newton chiefs who sat with McMains: John Carmichael Jr., Howard L. Mintz, and David MacDonald.
Cohoon spoke about the importance of having good relationships not only with his fellow officers, but with the residents of Newton as well.
Public safety “is built on trust,” he said, listing his top priorities as professionalism, accountability, transparency, compassion, fairness, and respect.
To residents he said, “Your voice matters; I will listen. … I am accountable to you.”
Telling attendees he looked forward to meeting the community and getting to know department members, he said the badge is a symbol of both authority and service.
If you “treat people with dignity and respect,” people will feel supported, said Cohoon.
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