Concord police chief announces plan to retire

After nearly a decade of leading Concord’s police force, Chief Guy Swanger is hanging up his hat.

The longtime law enforcement veteran announced his retirement at the end of his presentation to the City Council on Aug. 27.

“The department is in a good place. We have a good City Council,” he said. “I just think it’s time.”

The council members were full of accolades for the chief, who brought innovative programs and new technology to the police department and saw a steady decrease in major crimes. A recent police upgrade, launched Sept. 16, allows Concord residents to text 911 and it will go directly to dispatchers at the Concord PD.

Swanger said he will stay on as long as it takes to find a replacement. He and his wife have no plans to leave Concord – yet.

“One of our sons is getting married and, you know, we’ll want to follow the grandchildren.”