Fairfield Police Commission Names Michael Paris as New Chief of Police
Fairfield, CT – On Wednesday, July 16, 2025, the Fairfield Police Commission convened to interview and evaluate several candidates for the position of Chief of Police. All candidates demonstrated exceptional qualifications and leadership experience, a testament to the strength and professionalism of the department’s existing leadership team.
After careful deliberation, the Commission unanimously selected Captain Michael Paris as the next Chief of Police for the Town of Fairfield.
Chief Paris is the son of a former Bridgeport Police Sergeant, which helped inspire his lifelong passion for law enforcement and public service. He began his journey as a Fairfield Police Explorer. He graduated from Fairfield’s Notre Dame High School in 2001 and began his career with the Town of Fairfield later that year as an Emergency Telecommunicator at the age of 18. In 2006, he was sworn in as a Fairfield Police Officer.
In 2006, driven by a lifelong passion for law enforcement, he joined the Fairfield Police Department as a sworn officer. During his early years in patrol, he served as a Field Training Officer and was a member of the Department's Honor Guard.
In 2010, Chief Paris joined the Connecticut State Police’s Urban Violence Task Force, working undercover to target violent street gangs. Two years later, he was deputized as a Special Deputy Federal Agent and U.S. Marshal with the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force. For his efforts in combating organized crime, he received the United States Attorney Award.
Promoted to Sergeant in 2016, he supervised the Traffic Safety Unit, Crash Investigation Unit, and Marine Division. He also led the Department’s Crisis Negotiation Team and served as President of the Fairfield Police Union, advocating for officers’ interests and department advancement.
In 2021, he was promoted to Lieutenant and later assumed command of the Special Services Division. In this role, he oversaw specialized units and implemented initiatives to improve traffic safety and community engagement. He was the longtime commander of the Crash Investigation Unit, where he helped build a highly respected team known for its thorough and compassionate approach to major incidents.
In 2024, Chief Paris was promoted to the rank of Captain and took command of the Field Services Bureau, overseeing patrol operations and ensuring the effective deployment of resources to meet the needs of the Fairfield community.
Chief Paris holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from Sacred Heart University. Beyond his police work, he is an active member of the community and a former President of the Parish Council at Saint Nicholas Church in Bridgeport.
Chief Paris’s appointment marks a full-circle moment in his career. From his early days as a Fairfield Police Explorer to now holding the department’s highest rank, his journey is a testament to dedication, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to public service within the community he has always called home. As Chief of Police, he looks forward to continuing his unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of Fairfield’s residents.
Chief Paris was sworn in on 7/16/2025 so that he could immediately assume command. A formal and public ceremony will be held in the coming weeks.