By Tina Pappas

It was a heartfelt send-off for Police Chief Steven Post of the Little Falls Police Department (LFPD), who is retiring from the department.  Post received cheers and accolades, particularly from young people of the community, in a manner any fans would give for their hometown hero. The deep appreciation for his service resonated with students and staff of the Little Falls School District on March 30.

Along with Mayor James Damiano, Councilman Al Kahwaty and Schools Superintendent Tracey Marinelli, Post rode through town in a school mini-bus and stops were made at School No. 3, where the Chief was greeted by third and fourth grade students, then School No. 2, which allowed the Pre-K through second-graders to say thank you and goodbye. A final stop was made at School No. 1 Middle School, where the fifth through eighth graders had their chance to thank the Chief.

Students and staff lined the front sidewalks of all three schools holding up signs with messages of gratitude as Post gave repeated high-fives to everyone as he walked by.

Mayor Damiano commented on the outpouring of well-wishes for Post, noting his long-standing career with the LFPD. 

“Having Chief Post lead the Little Falls Police Department over the past six years has been nothing short of incredible,” Damiano said. “The drastic improvement throughout the department over this time is all due to his leadership, and the bonds that he has developed with the community over his 29-year career here has been noticed by all. I wish Chief Post nothing but the best on his future endeavors and know that he will be an asset no matter what he does. I also want to thank Chief Post for all he has done for this community during his career, and these last six years as Chief.”

Post became a member of the Little Falls Police Department when he first served as a dispatcher beginning in 1994. He became a patrolman in 1998 and then served as a field training officer, and as one of the agency’s specialized crime scene investigators.

In January 2006, he was promoted to the rank of sergeant and assigned to the patrol division where he assumed duties as a squad supervisor. In 2014, he was reassigned to an administrative position as a patrol division commander. In March 2015, he was assigned to the investigation division within the LFPD, at which time he attained the rank of detective sergeant. In July 2015, he became a lieutenant and served as second in command of the LFPD.  

In December 2015, he was sworn in as the eleventh Chief of Police for the Township, serving for more than six years.

Local police officers from the LFPD joined the students by lining the sidewalk of Stevens Avenue at the site of the old police department building across from School No. 1 Middle School, to send their well-wishes. Deputy Chief Bryan Prall detailed Post’s career over a loudspeaker, and added, “The Township of Little Falls and the community we serve thank you for your selfless service with the Township.”

Councilman Kahwaty commented on Chief’s Post career by adding, “He has a lot to be proud of, he leaves behind a distinguished career and a terrific department.  Personally, I have enjoyed working with Chief Post very much.”

Marinelli, who organized the send-off with township officials, said Post has been a tremendous presence in the schools, adding that she is proud of the relationship formed and the programs that were developed as a result.

 “Chief Post was not just our chief, he was a key partner,” she explained. “He made knowing our staff and students a priority and keeping our schools safe paramount.”

Post also commented on the strong bond between the LFPD and the Little Falls School District as “second to none” and commended Marinelli for leading the district. He said he and local police were happy to have a presence at all three public schools. He also said that police presence at schools gives students, staff, as well as parents before they leave for work, a feeling of safety every day. He added that the police presence also reassures the community as a whole.

 “I’m sad because I know I’m going to miss it,” said Post. “But I’m excited too. It’s been like an emotional rollercoaster this week.”

Photos courtesy of the Township of Little Falls