NORWICH – Deputy Chief Dale Smith will wear the shield of a Norwich Police Officer for the last time Saturday as he retires after 24 and a half years of law enforcement service.

Smith began his career as a full-time Chenango County Sheriff’s Correctional Officer but was also a part-time road patrol deputy by the time he took a position at the Norwich PD after four and a half years of service.

Friday and Saturday, Smith will work his final shifts from 3 to 11 p.m.

He’s served the city for just over 20 years and was promoted to deputy chief in March of 2006. Currently Smith is the department’s evening Watch Commander in charge of several administrative duties, including road patrol assistance, managing the impound lot, record and archive management, grant writing and handling uniform stipends. Smith is also a certified fire investigator and has conducted arson investigations, some of them resulting in convictions, for the department.

Smith said he was gratified to have served the community he lives in and looks forward to continuing his public service as a licensed code enforcement officer for the City of Norwich.

“It gives you a good feeling to help the public. I have kids, I want them to grow up in a safe environment,” said Smith.