Suffolk Police Chief William Freeman announced

that he plans to retire January 1, 2009. Chief Freeman, a thirty-seven year veteran of

the department, announced his retirement in a meeting today with City Manager Selena

Cuffee-Glenn.

Freeman joined the Nansemond County Police Department in 1971 and became a

member of the Suffolk Police Department when the two cities merged in 1974.

Freeman rose through the ranks, blazing new ground as the first African American to

hold the ranks of Lieutenant, Captain, Major and Police Chief. Freeman recently was

honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Hampton Roads Regional Crime

Line.

Cuffee-Glenn advised, “Chief Freeman was extremely dedicated to his profession and

made a lasting impact on the department and the Suffolk community.” “He will be

missed,” she added.

Cuffee-Glenn advised that the search for a new police chief will begin immediately.

“We have a top notch police department and we will work hard to continue that

tradition,” she advised.

Freeman advised members of the department of his plans in an email tonight. “It has

truly been an honor and privilege to have served with some of the most dedicated loyal

and professional employees of this city for over 37 years,” Freeman advised in the

email. “Thank You for granting me an opportunity to serve the citizens of Suffolk and to

be a small part of the Suffolk Police Department Law Enforcement Family,” he closed.