Connecticut State Police welcomes new colonel

MERIDEN, Conn. (WTNH) — Daniel Loughman was sworn in as the new colonel of the Connecticut State Police on Monday.

The ceremony, held at the Connecticut Police Academy in Meriden, marked a significant moment for the agency.

“I am privileged to lead an agency that has stood proudly for more than 120 years, and I know the duty and responsibility that comes with assuming this position,” Connecticut State Police Colonel Daniel Loughman.

Loughman has served as a trooper for more than 18 years. He’s served as interim colonel since Nov. 1, 2023. Previously, he was the commanding officer of the Office of Professional Standards and Training, was appointed to the labor relations unit and was commanding officer of various troops in the Central and Western Districts.

“I thank all of the troopers for making a difference every day and for your tireless dedication to public safety,” Loughman said.

During the ceremony, he shared how he’s visited the 11 barracks and saw firsthand what troopers need – and what their goals are.

“He was chosen for this very important role because he’ll bring integrity, fairness, and accountability to this critical role at this important moment,” Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz (D-Conn.) said.

Last year, Connecticut State Police faced scrutiny after possible widespread falsification of traffic ticket records.

An independent investigation revealed the data was far more limited, and the vast majority were unlikely to have intentionally falsified that information. In this capacity, Loughman said he wants to address morale.

“I support them. I’m going to do everything I can show them that I’m here to turn this place around,” Loughman told News 8. “I want to turn the morale around, and everything else can fall into place.”

He also hopes to modernize the agency and focus on accountability.

Ronnell Higgins, Commissioner of the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP), said he’s looking forward to their partnership and working together to make the state safer – and better – for everyone.

“We have a lot of work to do,” Higgins said. “Today we celebrate, but first thing tomorrow morning, we are back in there dealing with those tough issues we’re dealing with.”

The Connecticut State Police are the largest law enforcement agency in Connecticut. There are currently 930 sworn members who provide primary law enforcement services for 78 of the 169 towns in Connecticut and most state property, patrol approximately 7,000 miles of state highway, and serve in numerous specialized units.