1st female police chief for New London

New London (WTNH) - A police procession went through the streets of New London to the steps of City Hall today to celebrate the first female police chief.

Outgoing Police Chief Bruce Rinehart walked the ranks with a salute and a handshake for every officer under his command. Rinehart says when he first served this city the department had just three patrol cars.

"When I came on, we used to walk the beat out here in the pouring rain and the winter weather with no portable radios," Rinehart, of New London Police, said.

Now, after 42 years in uniform, he's stepping down. Local and state politicians applauded him for his honor, integrity and hard work.

"I'm hoping that people will remember me for trying to be reasonable, beneficial and benevolent to my employees," Rinehart said.

Taking his place will be Chief Margaret Ackley.

The solemn ceremony caps a career of firsts for her. Ackley was the first female detective in New London, the first female captain, and now the first female chief.

"Just having a change of command, change is difficult for people sometimes so my first course of business is just building stability right now," Ackley said.

Ackley becomes the fifth woman in Connecticut to achieve this rank. Fellow chiefs from Niantic and Middletown were there in sisterly support. There are only nine other female officers in New London, less than 10-percent of the department. They say that they hope Ackley's ascension will inspire others.

"They need more of us and we need strong leaders," Christina Kristy, of New London Police, said.

In her acceptance speech, she vowed to be just that. New Chief Margaret Ackley then walked the ranks - with a salute and a handshake for every officer under her command.

"I feel a lot of emotions, it's a proud moment and a humbling moment," Ackley said.