Sergeant Michael Coen Promoted; New Position Takes Effect September 30
Michael Coen, who is the sergeant of the Old Brookville Police Department, has been named the village’s new chief of police, effective September 30, 2024. He succeeds Christopher J. Walsh, who announced that he is retiring after 35 years of service to the department.
Coen joined the Old Brookville Police Department in 2010 after serving with the New York Police Department and was Walsh’s deputy commanding officer for the past year. ”I have full confidence in his ability to lead this department forward and maintain the high standards that the village deserves from its police department,” Walsh said.
“Looking to the future, the Village Board of Trustees decided several months ago that an internal promotion for Michael Coen to become the next chief of the department was the best decision for the Old Brookville Police Department and the community,” said Village Mayor Bernie Ryba. “Please join us as we wish Sergeant Coen much success in his new position.”
“I am honored to accept the position as the next Police Chief for the Old Brookville Police Department,” Coen said. “I appreciate the trust placed in me and am eager to begin this important role. As a law enforcement professional for the past 21 years and a nearby resident, I understand and appreciate the importance of public safety to our community and will do everything in my power to ensure the residents of Old Brookville receive the best possible police service.”
Walsh served with the Old Brookville Police Department for 35 years. He was promoted to sergeant in 1999, lieutenant in 2013, and chief of police in 2019. He will stay on as a part-time consultant with the department. During his tenure as chief, he saw the department undergo many changes, including expanding to a seven-village jurisdiction and, most recently, downsizing to a one-village police force.
“I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the mayor, the village trustees, and the village residents for the unwavering support you have shown me and the department throughout my career,” Walsh said. “Your support has been instrumental in our success. I will always cherish the many friendships I have formed and the invaluable experience I have gained during my time with this outstanding organization.”
“While we are saddened to learn of Chief Walsh’s retirement, we express our deep appreciation for the 35 years of service that he has provided to the Old Brookville Police Department,” Ryba said. “Chief Walsh will be missed, but he will not be forgotten.”