On August 1, 2024 residents, Southbury police officers and PD staff, members of the Connecticut police community, former first selectmen, and dignitaries celebrated the installation of Southbury’s first Police Chief, Christopher Grillo. Last year, residents voted to make the change from the State’s Resident Trooper Program to an Independent Police Department. "As we make this transition, we are not just creating a police department; we are creating a legacy of safety, trust, and service that will be the foundation for generations to come. Together, as a community, we will build a department that reflects the values and strengths of our town”, said Police Chief Chris Grillo.
First Selectman Jeff Manville commented, “Over the past 24-years, Chief Grillo has proven himself to be a confident leader dedicated to his profession, our police officers and community. The Town of Southbury has made a historic transition to an organized police department and with the hiring of our first Police Chief. With these changes, I believe it will bring a greater value and quality of policing that the citizens of Southbury are looking for. Our police department and community are in good hands.”