Fairfield, CT – After more than 25 years of service in the Fairfield Police Department, Chief Robert Kalamaras has announced his retirement from the Town of Fairfield.
Chief Kalamaras joined the Fairfield Police Department in 2000 and has spent his career serving in a variety of operational and leadership roles. He began as a patrol officer and spent a decade on the road before rising through the ranks. During his tenure, he worked in or supervised several specialized units including the Crash Investigation Unit, Emergency Services Unit, Dive Team, Marine Division, and Traffic Safety Unit. He also served as the department’s Public Information Officer.
Promoted to sergeant in 2010, Kalamaras held supervisory positions in both the Patrol and Special Services Divisions. He became a lieutenant in 2015 and later served as the commander of the Special Services Division. In 2019, he was promoted to captain and oversaw field operations before being appointed to Chief of Police in January 2021.
Chief Kalamaras is a U.S. military veteran and holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Sacred Heart University. He is a graduate of the 276th Session of the FBI National Academy, and earned a Master’s Certificate in Criminal Justice Leadership and Master’s Degree in Public Safety from the University of Virginia. He has served on numerous statewide advisory committees, contributing to the development and enhancement of public safety practices across Connecticut. In September 2024, he received the Distinguished Chiefs Award from the Police Commissioners Association of Connecticut, one of only three police chiefs in the state recognized for exceptional leadership and a steadfast commitment to public safety.
Throughout his leadership, Chief Kalamaras prioritized public safety, officer wellness, traffic enforcement, community engagement, and modernization of department operations. His leadership has helped position the Fairfield Police Department as one of the most professional and forward-thinking agencies in the region.
Chief Kalamaras’ s last day with the Fairfield Police Department will be July 16, 2025. His successor will be sworn in at an informal ceremony the following day, with a formal public swearing-in to follow in the coming weeks.
The Fairfield Police Commission will begin the process of selecting a new chief. With the support of Acting First Selectman Christine Vitale, the Commission intends to appoint Chief Kalamaras’ s successor from within the department, reflecting confidence in the strength of its current leadership and reinforcing the department’s commitment to continuity, professional development, and community-focused policing.
The Fairfield Police Department extends its sincere gratitude to Chief Kalamaras for his years of dedicated service and leadership. We wish him continued success in his future endeavors, and will proudly carry forward the tradition of excellence and professionalism he helped to strengthen during his tenure.