Colonie chief steps down

Teale began with town police three decades ago as a patrolman

Police Chief Jonathan Teale is retiring after 32 years of service.

Teale will cease working after Thursday, July 1, but his official retirement will be taking place in the coming weeks, according to a press release. His successor will be chosen at a later date as well, according to a police department statement.

Teale has been chief since 2015, but began his career in the police department as a patrolman in 1989. He was promoted to investigator, sergeant, lieutenant and deputy chief before rising to the top position six years ago.

The department’s press release said that under Teale’s tenure, the staff size grew larger than it has ever been. Teale also

focused on equipping his department with technology and equipment, such as purchasing the first armored vehicle and implementing drones.

“Chief Teale’s legacy is cemented

in his dedicated efforts to increase staffing and enhance the Colonie Police department’s technological and equipment resources,” the press release stated.

Will Waldron / Times Union Chief John Jonathan Teale displays a protective vest in 2017. Under his tenure, police force staffing has become the largest it has ever been.