Concord, N.H. — After two decades of service to the city, Barrett Moulton stepped into the role of permanent police chief with a clear mission: expand the department’s ranks and modernize its capabilities. Moulton, who joined the Concord Police Department in 2006 and served as interim chief for the past year, said the timing is critical as the department confronts lingering staffing shortages and the demands of evolving technology.
Recruitment and retention at the forefront
“We’ve faced challenges with recruitment and retention for a while,” Moulton told local reporters. “Our goal is to turn that around by showing prospective officers that Concord is a place where they can build a rewarding career and serve a community that truly backs them.” He emphasized that the city’s reputation as a tight‑knit capital community provides a unique draw for candidates who value close community ties.
New headquarters as a recruiting tool
The department is slated to move into a brand‑new headquarters currently under construction on Bouton Street. Moulton believes the modern facility will be a tangible asset in recruitment efforts. “A state‑of‑the‑art building signals to recruits that we are investing in our officers and the future of public safety,” he said. The new headquarters will feature upgraded communications, advanced training spaces, and technology that can help officers respond more efficiently to calls.
Technology and response times
Beyond staffing, Moulton highlighted the need for updated tools to keep pace with modern policing. He noted that calls now take longer to process, which can keep officers from getting on the streets for routine duties such as directing traffic or community outreach. “Investing in technology isn’t just about gadgets; it’s about freeing our officers to do what they do best—protect and serve the people of Concord,” he explained.
Community support as a cornerstone
When asked what makes Concord a good place for law enforcement, Moulton praised the city’s residents. “New Hampshire’s a great community for law enforcement. We’re a really tight community. With it being the capital, it makes us a little bit different, of course, but it’s really the people here. I think Concord’s got really big support from our community. It makes working here better.” His remarks underscore the administration’s belief that strong community‑police relationships are essential to both recruitment and effective policing.
Looking ahead
In his first year as chief, Moulton aims to see measurable progress in hiring numbers and to have the new headquarters operational. He plans to work closely with city officials, local schools, and veteran organizations to broaden the pool of potential candidates. By highlighting career stability, community respect, and modern resources, the department hopes to attract both new graduates and seasoned officers seeking a supportive environment.
While challenges remain, the chief’s proactive stance reflects a broader trend among law‑enforcement agencies nationwide: investing in people and technology to meet the evolving needs of the public. Concord’s residents can look forward to a safer, more visible police presence as the recruitment drive gains momentum.
Original reporting: WMUR (Hearst) – local news — read the source article.
