June 2, 2004
ROMNEY NAMES MAJOR ROBBINS NEW STATE POLICE SUPERINTENDENT
Experience in Homeland Security Makes Robbins Ideal Choice for Job
Saying homeland security remains his “number one public safety priority,” Governor Mitt Romney today appointed Logan Airport’s security commander, Major Thomas Robbins, as the new Superintendent of the State Police.
Just months after terrorists hijacked two airliners out of Boston and flew them into the World Trade Center in New York City, Major Robbins was named Director of Aviation Security at Logan Airport and spearheaded many new anti-terrorist strategies. In February 2002, he was appointed the airport’s State Police Troop Commander, where he continued to make security enhancements that have helped make Logan a national model for aviation security.
“Major Robbins’s 24 years of State Police experience combined with his focus on homeland security at Logan Airport make him the ideal choice to lead Massachusetts’ chief law enforcement agency,” said Romney.
“Of all the candidates, no one had more experience on the homeland security front lines than Major Robbins,” Romney added.
State law requires the Governor to select the Superintendent of State Police from within the department. All those holding the rank above lieutenant are eligible for the appointment.
After entering the State Police Academy in 1979, Major Robbins joined the force in 1980, having graduated first in his class of 50. During his years of service with the State Police, he has served as an instructor and as Commandant at the Academy, Supervisor of the North Shore Anti Gang Violence Unit and Station Commander at the Andover Barracks.
“The State Police play a pre-eminent role in Massachusetts’ regional response to law enforcement and homeland security challenges,” said Public Safety Secretary Edward A. Flynn. “I am proud of the competitive selection process we put in place for this position, out of which Major Robbins became the clear choice.”
“I would like to thank Governor Romney and Secretary Flynn for allowing me the opportunity to lead the fine men and women of the State Police as we, together with our federal and local partners, chart a course of public safety and security for the citizens of Massachusetts,” said Major Robbins, who will begin serving in his new capacity on June 11.
Robbins was selected from a pool of 22 candidates who applied for the position and were interviewed by the Executive Office of Public Safety. Four finalists were interviewed by the Governor.
The State Police Colonel position has been held on an acting basis by Lieutenant Colonel Bradley Hibbard since May 27 when Colonel Thomas Foley retired.
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