McDermott Announces Retirement Of Police Chief
Mayor Thomas McDermott Jr announced the retirement of Hammond Police Chief John Doughty effective immediately, he said Monday. “I was caught off guard with John’s decision,” stated Mayor McDermott. “John has been only the second Police Chief of my administration. I am pleased with what he has done with the Department and where he has taken it. Under John’s watch the Hammond Police Department has significantly updated its technology including crime fighting cameras, LPR (License Plate Reader) Cameras and body cams for the entire department. He also was the driving force of the Academy Bound program which greatly helped in diversifying the Hammond Police Department. I wish he wasn’t retiring but now that he has made his decision I wish him and his family all the best.”
John Doughty was appointed as Chief of Police in April of 2014. He is a thirty-seven-year veteran of the Hammond Police Department. He has a military background with the U.S. Army and has previously served for the department as a Patrol Officer, Field Training Officer, Narcotics Officer, K-9 Handler, SWAT commander, Sergeant, Captain of the Uniform Division and Assistant Chief of Police before becoming Chief. “Chief Doughty is staying within the police administration and will continue to fully support the administration of the Hammond Police Department,” Lt Steve Kellogg told RNS.
“Being Chief of Police is a very demanding job,” stated Chief Doughty. “At this point in my life, I need to focus more on my family and be able to spend more time with them. I appreciate the faith and trust Mayor McDermott has shown me.”
“This is definitely bittersweet,” stated Phil Taillon, Chief of Staff. “I’m happy for John and his family, but will certainly miss working together with him going forward. He was a true leader.”
“It came as a complete surprise to me to hear of John’s retirement”, stated Dave Woerpel, Council President. “He was always willing to help me and my colleagues when dealing with a constituent’s complaint. I have always considered him a friend and appreciate all that he has done for the City. I wish him well.”
