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Father, son serve as chiefs of neighboring Vt. PDs

Mike Warfle, the longtime police chief in Pittsford, is preparing to retire after a 40-year career; meanwhile, his son, Jeff Warfle, was recently appointed police chief in Ludlow

PITTSFORD, Vt. — A father and son are making history in Vermont by becoming the first known family members to simultaneously serve as police chiefs in different departments, WCAX reported.

Mike Warfle, the longtime police chief in Pittsford, is preparing to retire after a law enforcement career that began in 1984, according to the report. Meanwhile, his son, Jeff Warfle, was recently appointed police chief in nearby Ludlow.

“He’s young enough where he’s going to see more changes coming down the pipe,” Mike told WCAX. “My change days are kind of over.”

Jeff started his career in law enforcement as an officer in Pittsford, the department his father still leads, according to the report. Before becoming a police officer, Jeff served in the military, a path that ultimately led him to follow in his father’s footsteps.

“People saw a little bit of Mike in me — that was kind of neat,” Jeff said.
The two regularly collaborate and exchange ideas.

“He walked in today and helped me out with something on the computer. I mean, we’re still bouncing things out,” Mike said. “I’m getting towards the end and he’s just starting.”

As Jeff steps into his new role, he says he’s embracing the opportunity to lead and serve his community, just as his father has done for decades.

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Joanna Putman is an Associate Editor and newswriter at Police1, where she has been covering law enforcement topics since August 2023. Based in Orlando, Florida, she holds a journalism degree from the University of Florida and spent two years working in nonprofit local newsrooms, gaining experience in community-focused reporting. Married to a law enforcement officer, she works hard to highlight the challenges and triumphs of those who serve and protect. Have a news tip? Email her at news@lexipol.com