Jason Ryan is the first chief of the #MiddletownRI Police Department to be promoted from the ranks in more than 40 years. Ryan speaks about his new role, ideas and how critical support from the community is to any police department's work.
RISING THROUGH THE RANKS
MIDDLETOWN, R.I. (DECEMBER 19, 2024) – Jason Ryan understands there’s immense tradition and dignity with the Middletown Police Department.
As the first chief to be appointed from within the ranks in 40 plus years, Ryan said he will work hard to make sure the force remains a source of stability, pride and honor for not only the men and women who put on the uniform every day, but the community itself.
Sworn in as Chief on Monday night in Town Hall, Ryan’s appointment was greeted with loud applause from a standing room only crowd that included many current and retired Middletown officers.
“We will continue to grow as a department and evolve with the times,” Ryan said. “We will be actively engaged in the community and we will work to keep Middletown a safe and enjoyable place to live, work and visit.”
Because without the support of the community, Ryan said police work becomes extremely difficult, whether it’s Middletown or anywhere else.
“A strong partnership between the Middletown Police Department and the community is essential for fostering safety, trust, and collaboration, ultimately benefiting everyone involved,” Ryan said.
With a big smile on his face, Town Council President Paul Rodrigues mentioned how proud he was to have a chief from within the department for the first time in more than four decades.
And not only because Rodrigues said Ryan is symbolic of everything Middletown was seeking in a police chief. He said by hiring from within, it gives other officers the idea and goal that they too might one day lead such a premier law enforcement agency with the right effort, outlook and drive.
“We’re very proud to promote Jay and we’re even prouder that he’s a Middletowner,” Rodrigues said. “That promote from within philosophy is important to any organization because it sends a message of retention, of caring, of hope and ‘Hey, maybe someday that could be me, right?’”
Sworn in as an officer in March 2005 after leaving a teaching job in Portsmouth, Ryan has held a supervisory role with the Middletown Police since August 2013.
Addressing the crowd, Ryan said that without the support of his wife Dawn, children William and Emily and the rest of his family, he never would have become chief.
Popular within the department for his humble approach and driving work ethic, the Ryans have quietly hosted a Christmas morning breakfast for all the officers on duty at the family’s home for years.
“I would like to thank my family for their enduring support throughout this journey. ,” Ryan said. “Without their support this simply would not be possible. And to the men and women of the Middletown Police Department, I truly appreciate all of their support.”
Ryan also thanked Anthony Pesare, who retired in December, capping a 40-year law enforcement career.
“Chief Pesare has been a great mentor, not only to me, but to everyone that has worn the Middletown Police uniform,” Ryan said. “Chief Pesare has taught me how to effectively lead and be a leader. How to engage with the public and to always stand up for what you believe in.”
And the belief of the council and Town Administrator Shawn J. Brown were critical as well, Ryan said.
“I would like to thank Town Council President Rodrigues and all members of the Town Council as well as Town Administrator Shawn Brown for placing their trust and faith in me to lead the department,” Ryan said. “This is a great honor.”
Moving forward, Ryan said it was too early for him to roll out any initiatives or directives for the force.
Instead, he said it was his aim to get situated with his new role and make adjustments — if necessary — as they’re required. He also planned on continuing the department’s outreach efforts, with announcements expected in that area in coming weeks.
Most importantly, Ryan said he couldn’t wait to continue the department’s good work and the standards and legacies that make Middletown Police great.
“Police work has always been something that I felt a calling,” Ryan said. “The ability to help people and make a difference in the community while working with a team to accomplish this goal is what really appealed to me.”
Document Link: https://mdl.town/NYCU-Ranks
About Middletown
The Town of Middletown is a vibrant municipality located on Aquidneck Island, known for its scenic beauty, historic landmarks, diverse economy and strong sense of community. For more information about all we have to offer, visit MiddletownRI.gov online.
Media Contact
Matt Sheley
Public Affairs Officer
401-842-6543
msheley@middletownri.com