Interim Police Chief Barrett Moulton at the groundbreaking for the new police station. Credit: CATHERINE McLAUGHLIN / Monitor

Barrett Moulton, a 20-year member of the Concord Police Department, was named chief on a permanent basis on Monday. Moulton had been serving as interim chief since the retirement of former Chief Bradley Osgood in January.

“The Concord Police Department has some of the most dedicated and talented officers and
civilian staff in the state, who work diligently each day to provide the best service to our community,” Moulton said in a public written statement. “I would also like to express my gratitude to the citizens of Concord who continue to show strong support for the department. The community support is what makes the Capitol City such a great place.”

Concord Police Chief Barrett Moulton Credit: Courtesy / City of Concord

Moulton, who grew up in the Lakes Region, spent about seven years with Loudon Police before joining Concord in 2006, the city’s announcement said. In Concord, Moulton moved on from patrol into detective roles focused on drug enforcement and youth services. He was promoted to deputy chief in 2022. Moulton also became a point person for the department’s role in managing and addressing homelessness in the city.

His selection does not come as a surprise: police departments often promote from within, and Moulton being tapped for the post on an interim basis was a sign that he had support among city leaders.

“We are proud of the Concord Police Department and the stellar level of service they provide to the community every day,” City Manager Tom Aspell said in a statement. “We know that commitment will continue under Chief Moulton’s leadership.”

Moulton’s promotion also comes amid a wave of senior retirements at City Hall. Osgood’s departure early this year has been followed by the retirement of Deputy Chief Steven Smagula, who retired in July. Deputy City Manager Brian LeBrun, who oversaw the city’s budgeting and finances, retired at the end of the summer.

Most significantly, Aspell announced he would retire at the end of this coming January. He has been with the city for nearly 30 years, with more than 20 in his current role.

Catherine McLaughlin is a reporter covering the city of Concord for the Concord Monitor. She can be reached at cmclaughlin@cmonitor.com. You can subscribe to her newsletter, the City Beat, at concordmonitor.com.