HOLDEN, Maine — Police Chief Gene Worcester resigned earlier this week citing health reasons, according to a town official.
Town Manager Benjamin Breadmore said Thursday that Worcester submitted his letter of resignation on Tuesday, effective immediately.
“It has been my privilege to serve the citizens of Holden over the past 28 years,” Worcester wrote in his letter. “I wish you and the town the best for years to come.”
Worcester joined the Holden force in 1987 and served as chief since 2003.
“That’s a true testament to be in the profession for that long,” Breadmore said.
Worcester had been placed on paid administrative leave last month for a personnel matter Breadmore would not discuss. He said at the time that Worcester was not under investigation.
Holden’s police department has 11 employees, including the chief. Worcester’s annual salary was $53,000, including benefits.
Sgt. Chris Greeley was named the acting police chief on July 1 and will continue to hold that duty while the search for a permanent chief is found, according to Breadmore.
The town manager said a search will start in the coming weeks.
