PRINCESS ANNE POLICE DEPT ANNOUNCES THE RETIREMENT OF CHIEF WINK
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Somerset County, MD - After more than two decades of dedicated service, the Princess Anne Police Department (PAPD) announces the retirement of Chief Robert "Robbie" Wink, effective January 31, 2025.
Chief Wink's historic tenure with the PAPD began in 2002, making him the first officer in the department's history to start and end his career with the agency. Early in his career, he served as the town's Code Enforcement Officer while maintaining patrol duties. In 2006, he was selected to serve as an investigator with the Somerset County Narcotics Task Force, making significant strides in fighting drug-related crimes until 2012.
Chief Wink's excellent management and investigative skills led him to various roles, from leading the department's Criminal Investigation Unit to serving as Administrative Lieutenant and eventually stepping into the role of Interim Police Chief in February 2020.
Later in 2021, he was officially sworn in as Police Chief, a position he held with honor and distinction. Under his leadership, PAPD initiated several programs to foster community relationships. This resulted in attending, partnering, and participating in various functions and events, creating dialogue and trust-building opportunities.
With Chief Wink's guidance, the department secured grants to support community-enriching events like "Movie in the Park" and National Night Out. As Assistant SWAT Commander, he oversaw operations at the peak of the department's SWAT activities. His career highlights also include the largest drug seizure in the department's history.
Chief Wink's unwavering dedication leaves a powerful legacy. As he prepares for his well-deserved retirement, the Princess Anne Police Department and the entire community extend heartfelt gratitude for his years of steadfast service and leadership.
Chief Wink's historic tenure with the PAPD began in 2002, making him the first officer in the department's history to start and end his career with the agency. Early in his career, he served as the town's Code Enforcement Officer while maintaining patrol duties. In 2006, he was selected to serve as an investigator with the Somerset County Narcotics Task Force, making significant strides in fighting drug-related crimes until 2012.
Chief Wink's excellent management and investigative skills led him to various roles, from leading the department's Criminal Investigation Unit to serving as Administrative Lieutenant and eventually stepping into the role of Interim Police Chief in February 2020.
Later in 2021, he was officially sworn in as Police Chief, a position he held with honor and distinction. Under his leadership, PAPD initiated several programs to foster community relationships. This resulted in attending, partnering, and participating in various functions and events, creating dialogue and trust-building opportunities.
With Chief Wink's guidance, the department secured grants to support community-enriching events like "Movie in the Park" and National Night Out. As Assistant SWAT Commander, he oversaw operations at the peak of the department's SWAT activities. His career highlights also include the largest drug seizure in the department's history.
Chief Wink's unwavering dedication leaves a powerful legacy. As he prepares for his well-deserved retirement, the Princess Anne Police Department and the entire community extend heartfelt gratitude for his years of steadfast service and leadership.