Greensburg police chief announces retirement

Greensburg Police Chief Robert Stafford is retiring from the force after 34 years of service.

His last day is Jan. 18. City council members this week unanimously approved his letter of retirement.

“I figured it was just that time,” Stafford said. “I went from patrolman to chief all in the same building in the same department.”

Stafford began his career with the Greensburg Police Department in July 1988. After working about 10 years as a patrolman, he began moving up in the ranks. Stafford was promoted to police chief in 2020 after Chad Zucco resigned after four years of leading the department.

During his two years as chief, Stafford said he had several accomplishments, including leading the department through the covid-19 pandemic.

Stafford plans to spend his retirement traveling to Florida with his wife.

Capt. Shawn Denning, who will fill in as interim chief, has been on Greensburg’s police force for 14 years. In 2020, he was promoted to captain — his third promotion in four years.

“I am honored and humbled to take over the reins until the interviews are completed and the position is filled,” Denning said. “I have big shoes to fill and will use my experience and the knowledge I’ve obtained by observing and soaking everything I could in from those who held the position in the past.”

Several council members applauded Stafford for his time on the force.

“Chief Stafford has been on the police force for 34 years,” said Mayor Robert Bell. “I personally, and I know everybody up here, would like to thank Chief Stafford for his years of service and dedication to the Greensburg police department and community.”