Lieutenant Jeff Renzella is Wellesley's new Deputy Police Chief.
A veteran officer, lifelong Wellesley resident, and respected and valued member of our community, Renzella was sworn in at the Select Board meeting on November 19, 2024 by Town Clerk K.C. Kato and pinned by his wife, Maura.
The standing room only ceremony took place at the Tolles Parsons Center and was attended by family and friends, Wellesley Police Department officers and staff, and members of the Wellesley High School football team, for whom Jeff is an assistant coach in his after-work hours.
Renzella was selected for the promotion by Chief of Police Scott Whittemore. In remarks to the Board, Chief Whittemore talked about Renzella's strength as a leader, his institutional knowledge of both the department and our community, and his ability to empower officers to make bold decisions.
"Jeff knows what the department needs and how to make it better, " said Chief Whittemore, who also talked about his personal and professional friendship with Jeff. "He and I grew up together and trained together. I've been very fortunate to have Jeff as a partner throughout my career, and I couldn't be happier that he took this challenge and took this job."
Renzella's impact on our community was apparent as recently as the night before his promotion. On November 18, he was part of the team of WPD and State Police officers, detectives searching for two individuals involved in a home burglary on Livingston Road. Lt. Renzella located and apprehended one of the suspects.
Following the swearing in ceremony, the new Deputy Chief was celebrated with a formal salute from his officers outside the TPC.
Congratulations Deputy Chief Renzella!