Brookhaven swears in Tim Abbott as police chief

Brookhaven Police Chief Tim Abbott was sworn in at a public ceremony in Brookhaven, where city officials, friends and residents praised his years of service and ties to local community programs.

The ceremony included biographical remarks and a formal oath of office. According to speakers at the event, Abbott began with the department as a part-time officer in February 2007, became a full-time officer about 14 months later, was promoted to investigator in February 2012 and was promoted to sergeant in January 2023.

A longtime acquaintance who introduced Abbott said, "He is an even tempered person, in my opinion, fit to lead the Brookhaven Police Department and protect the residents and businesses in Brookhaven." The introducer described occasions when Abbott checked in at local youth events and responded professionally to neighborhood incidents, including an investigation into an unlicensed tow operator.

During the ceremony Abbott recited the oath of office, telling attendees, "My heart is full, and I'm deeply honored to be here." Officials and community members offered prayer and remarks before and after the oath. Speakers referenced Abbott's frequent presence at local sites including Scott Park, Irving Field and the Brookhaven gym as illustrations of his community engagement.

No legislative vote or council motion was recorded in the transcript; the event was a ceremonial swearing-in and not presented as a separate council vote during the portions transcribed. The ceremony concluded with remarks thanking Abbott, his family and the department.

Further administrative details about Abbott's appointment paperwork, effective start date, or any subsequent administrative actions were not specified in the meeting transcript.