Porter Police Chief Todd Allen will be retiring effective July 4, ending his 30-year career with the department.
Allen, 55, read a statement announcing his decision during Tuesday’s Town Council meeting.
“It has been an incredible honor to work through the ranks and conclude my career as chief of police. Serving this department and my community has been one of the greatest privileges of my life,” Allen said.
Allen thanked his fellow officers and the citizens of Porter for their “support, trust and partnership” over the years.
“The friendship and experiences I have gained will always remain close to my heart. Though I am stepping away from the badge, my commitment to this community will never fade. Thank you for all the memories, the camaraderie and the opportunity to serve,” Allen said, his voice cracking with emotion as he closed his statement.
Those assembled in the Town Hall gave Allen a round of applause.
The next step is for the Porter Police Commission at their April 17 meeting to interview two internal candidates to replace Allen.
The Porter Police Department has 10 full-time officers and 13 part-time officers. The department depends on part-time reinforcements, especially during the summer months, to help handle the demands that sometimes come from the influx of visitors to the Indiana State Park and Porter Beach.
Allen joined the Porter Police force in January 1995.
A memorable experience that Allen recalls during his first days on the job was saving the life of a choking 3-year-old child.
Eventually, Allen was promoted to assistant police chief, and in May 2021, he became chief, succeeding James Spanier, who then became Porter’s Public Works superintendent.
Allen said he doesn’t have any immediate plans for his next job after his retirement as chief.
“I really enjoyed working here,” Allen said.
Jim Woods is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
