Tim Havas sworn in as Brookhaven police chief

Tim Havas was sworn in as chief of the Brookhaven Police Department at a public ceremony, where he pledged to prioritize transparency, communication and empathy in the department’s work.

At the event, speakers recounted Havas’s years on the force and his recent promotions. A supporter described him as “even tempered” and fit to lead. Havas recited the oath of office, saying, “I solemnly swear ... to support and defend the Constitution of the United States,” and told the community, “I promise to hold myself and the entire department accountable. We will uphold fairness and equity in all our actions.”

The ceremony included remarks from friends and community members who cited Havas’s long service in local programs and sports leagues and his responsiveness to residents. According to remarks at the event, Havas has been with the Brookhaven Police Department for 18 years, served as an investigator in 2012, was promoted to sergeant in January 2023 and served as acting chief beginning April 19, 2024. He was described as a 15-year resident of Brookhaven.

A clergy member led a prayer for the new chief and for the police department. No formal council vote or motion was recorded at the ceremony; the event consisted of a ceremonial oath and remarks.

Havas told attendees he would encourage officers to “approach their duty with empathy” and said empathy is “essential for building trust and ensuring constitutional, legal, and procedural justice.” He closed by thanking the community and saying, “With that in mind, we’ll make you proud.”

The ceremony did not include details on administrative changes, staffing, or specific policy initiatives tied to the appointment; those items were not specified during the remarks.