Police send off retiring Officer Owens

27-year veteran honored by local officials

One of the borough’s finest has now called it a career.

The Lansdale Borough Police Department marked the retirement of longtime Officer James Owens last week after 27 years with the department.

“The departure of Officer Owens leaves big shoes to fill. It was an honor working with him and we wish him well as he embarks on a new chapter in his life,” said Police Chief Mike Trail.

Owens joined the department as a part-time officer in 1993, then joined full-time starting in 1995, and served as a field training officer, bike patrol officer, and member of the Montgomery County Municipal Drug Task Force during his tenure, according to information from the borough and department. During his tenure, Owens received 16 departmental citations of merit, and was named the department’s Officer of the Year by his peers in 2007.

“Officer Owens was a consummate professional who was always willing to share his experience with new and seasoned officers alike. Congratulations on your retirement and we thank you for your years of dedicated service to the people of Lansdale,” said the borough in a statement. Owens also received a formal citation from State Sen. Bob Mensch, and a similar commendation from Lansdale Mayor Garry Herbert.

“It has been an honor to work with him these past three years and his passion for our community has helped us become a better place to live, work and play,” Herbert said.

“The departure of Officer Owens leaves big shoes to fill.” — Police Chief Mike Trail

PHOTO COURTESY OF LANSDALE POLICE DEPARTMENT Retiring Lansdale police Officer James Owens poses during a farewell reception in honor of his retirement on Sept. 15.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SENATOR BOB MENSCH Retiring Lansdale police Officer James Owens receives a formal citation from State Senator Bob Mensch during a farewell reception in honor of Owens’ retirement on Sept. 15.