Reynolds recommends captain to replace him on NSPD, appointment still pending

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Chief Steven Reynolds, left, and Capt. Tim Lafferty

NORTH SMITHFIELD – With his official retirement date fast approaching, North Smithfield Police Chief Steven Reynolds has recommended one of the department’s second-in-command as his replacement.

Capt. Tim Lafferty, who has worked for the department since he was hired by Reynolds in 1996, was one of several applicants for the position.

It is not yet known if Town Administrator Gary Ezovski, who has authority over the appointment, will choose Lafferty or another of the qualified applicants. An advertisement for the position stated that candidates should have at least 15 years experience, with a minimum of three years experience in an administrative position, and hold the rank of lieutenant or above. It also notes the need for skills in budgeting and program management.

Lafferty certainly seems to fit the bill. One of two seconds-in-command for the department, Lafferty was named captain in 1997 and is currently in charge of administration and prosecution, as well as maintaining the records management system. He received a bachelor’s degree in administration of justice from Roger William’s University in 1999, and studied criminal investigation at the University of Rhode Island from 2003-2004. He is certified in firearms instruction, BCIs and evidence management.

Reynolds announced his upcoming retirement in October after 24 years in North Smithfield. The current chief worked for the Rhode Island State Police for 22 years before leading the NSPD, and has served as a state trooper and member of the state’s detective division.

Reynolds retirement takes effect on Saturday, Feb. 22, and Ezovski has said he hopes to have a replacement ready by that time. The deadline to apply for the position passed on Monday, Jan. 13.

The administrator previously said he would appoint a search committee to help him fill the role, but had not publicly named members as of Thursday, Jan. 16. Ezovski did not respond this week to a request for comment.

The person chosen will oversee 26 sworn full-time officers as well as three full-time dispatchers, three part-time dispatchers, one technological person and an administrative assistant.

The salary for the position is listed at $89,000, depending on ability.

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