The Kure Beach Police Department will have a new command following the current chief’s announcement this week of retirement plans.
Police Chief Dennis Cooper, who has served the force for more than two decades, announced his retirement Tuesday at town council’s meeting, according to a notice from the town. Cooper was hired as a patrol officer in 1992 and was promoted to police chief four years later.
“I hope I leave you with a police department that is very healthy and very strong,” Cooper said about his departure from the force. “They have a bright future going forward – each and every one of them.”
Cooper thanked his wife and the residents of the town for their support over the years.
“It has been a great place to live and a great place to be chief,” Cooper said.
Another veteran of the police department will follow in Cooper’s footsteps. At a special meeting Tuesday, town council promoted Lt. Michael P. Bowden to police chief. Bowden has served the Kure Beach police force for 16 years.
“Mike Bowden is very highly qualified and is extremely familiar with the town,” Kure Beach Mayor Emilie Swearingen said. “I believe I’m not speaking out of turn when I say he has the full support of our entire police department in this decision and our entire council.”
Bowden will take on his new role with the police department following a swearing-in ceremony at Kure Beach Town Hall, 117 Settlers Lane, at 10 a.m. Friday, July 1.
