Ready to retire

Laconia Police Chief Chris Adams, center, shakes hands with Police Commissioner Armand Maheux as Police Commissioner Doug Whittum stands by at Thursday's announcement. (Michael Kitch/Laconia Daily Sun)

Laconia Police Chief Chris Adams resigns, effective May 1

By RICK GREEN, LACONIA DAILY SUN

LACONIA — Overcome with emotion, Laconia Police Chief Chris Adams had to pause briefly as he told the Police Commission on Thursday that he is resigning effective May 1.

"It's truly been an amazing 23 years," he said. "The years have flown by. I met so many amazing people along the way."

The commission accepted the resignation. It intends to pick his successor from within the department.

Adams said he is making a recommendation for who should succeed him, but said it is too early to disclose the name.

Adams, 46, said he received his real estate license a year ago and intends to pursue a career in that field.

"I have a passion for real estate," he said.

He has been chief since 2011. He joined the department as a patrol officer in 1994.

He said the commission is supportive and experienced, including Armand Maheux, who has been on the panel for more than two decades.

In an email to the police department, Adams said his years as chief were gratifying. He said the job of police officer is different than it used to be.

"Policing in America has changed in so many ways, from the threat of foreign and homegrown terrorism, to the emergence of social media, to acts of gun violence, and in recent years, anti-law enforcement sentiment," he said. "Law enforcement is a profession that is attracting fewer and fewer candidates, which is understandable."

The commission put out a statement saying it accepted Adams' resignation with regret.

"Through his example, we are reminded that law enforcement is one of the noblest of professions, for which the majority of citizens are grateful," the statement said.

"To that end, it is the intention of the commission, in order to continue the momentum and leadership established by Chief Adams over the past six years, to seek applicants to fill the chief of police position from within the department. Officers with direct supervision experience are encouraged to apply for this position."