The City Manager, along with Police Chief Richard Mello, announce his retirement from New Hampshire law enforcement after more than 5 years of service to the City and 28 years of service in the State.
Chief Mello reported for duty with the City on December 20, 2015. Under his leadership, Lebanon saw a broad expansion of public outreach, community policing, and transparency of operations. Through his commitment to excellence in policing and mentoring his staff through a years-long process, in November 2020, Lebanon was bestowed with accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA), an accomplishment not achieved by the vast majority of departments throughout the nation, and one that Lebanon proudly deserves!
When looking back on his accomplishments, Chief Mello notes, “My time as Chief of Police in Lebanon has been the highlight of my 28 years in New Hampshire law enforcement. When I arrived in 2015, I set out to leave the agency better than how I found it, and I believe that, due to the work of a very dedicated staff, my goal has been met. I am proud of the work done by all over these past 5+ years and know that I am leaving the department in very capable hands.”
Chief Mello has worked diligently to enrich and develop the staff of the police department and is leaving the City in a positive and forward progressing direction. City Manager Mulholland states, “The community is fortunate to have had Richard Mello at the helm for the past 5+ years. Due to his commitment to the community and consistently working to develop his subordinates, we have a Deputy Chief who is ready to assume the leadership role incumbent upon a Chief of Police.”
City Manager Mulholland is pleased to announce the appointment of Deputy Chief Phillip Roberts as Chief of Police effective May 1, 2021.
Authorized By Shaun Mulholland, City Manager