Copley: Reports of my retirement have been greatly exaggerated

QUINCY — Quincy Police Chief Rob Copley told Muddy River News Friday morning he has not set a firm date for his retirement from 41 years of service to the Quincy Police Department.

“Well, it’s been in the (other) media, but it’s news to me,” Copley said. “I have had conversations with various people that I do plan to (retire) next year, and my term would be up in May, but I have made no firm decision.

“My family would be the first to know.”

Many moving parts are now part of Copley’s decision. The three-man Fire and Police Commission currently makes the selection of a new police or fire chief and sends it to the mayor and City Council for final approval. An ordinance before the City Council would give the power to appoint future chiefs solely to the mayor.

“When my current term is up at the end of April, as of now, it would be up the commission to renew it,” Copley said. “But if this ordinance passes … well, then I guess I’m done.”

Copley said he could possibly agree to continue his service…for a short time.

“Yes, I’m looking at retirement after 41 years in the department and the last 17 years as chief, but I’ll make that decision,” Copley said.

Copley replaced Michael DeVoss in June 2004 as the police chief. He was selected over two other finalists — Deputy Chief Harry Cramer and Lt. Dennis Bingheim — by the Fire and Police Commission.

He started as a patrol officer, then was named a youth investigator. Copley was promoted to sergeant and the Youth Unit supervisor in June 1996. He was promoted to lieutenant two years later and returned to the patrol force as evening shift commander.