East Haven interim police chief sworn in

East Haven, Conn. (WTNH) - Brent Larrabee was sworn in as the interim police chief of East Haven in a private ceremony Tuesday morning.  

In a room at the city library, Mayor Joseph Maturo proudly announced that his selection brings years of experience for community oriented and progressive public safety practices in diverse communities.  

Maturo said in his opening remarks, "It is a difficult time of uncertainty, but also one of opportunity." He added, "We have an opportunity today, to move our police department, to se the level of excellence, for policing in Connecticut."

Larrabee then faced the media during a press conference.

"I looked at the situation, talked to some pretty knowledgeable people, and thought I might be the right person at the right time, and thought I could be a help here, and help to everyone involved."

Although the mayor has pledged transparency, the actually swearing in ceremony was done in private.  A photographer of the event was provided to the news media.

"We mentioned it to the DOJ last week, we put out a press release early to let you know what was to take place, Chief Larrabee and I talked about the swearing in ceremony, we thought it would be best to have a private ceremony, in our office...it was just the two of us," Maturo said.

"Whatever perceived or lack of perception of transparency, from this day forward, you will not have that problem with me and my administration. I don't, uh...if the DOJ says we made a mistake, we're sorry, going forward, it will not be a problem," Larrabee said. following the Mayor's remarks.

The chief says he is prepared to unite a community, improve the morale of a department, and first and foremost, he says he's just ready to get to work.

A former police chief in Stamford, Larrabee was more recently working as a consultant.

He was brought on following the sudden retirement of Leonard Gallo. Gallo stepped aside soon after four East Haven officers were indicted for profiling and targeting Latinos. All four officers have pleaded not guilty.

Larrabee says in Stamford, he knew all of his 307 officers by their first name, he believes it will be no different in East Haven.

"I have to bring them some hope," Larrabee said. "Whether they see me as long term or short term, whatever period I'm here, they have to see me as somebody who's been around the industry for quite awhile, and get them through this moment in time."