North Branford Police Department’s (NBPD) leadership transition, which began earlier this year with the appointment of Chief of Police James Lovelace, a veteran of NBPD leadership, was complemented April 15 with the swearing-in of NBPD’s new Deputy Chief of Police, Michael Pendleton.

At the event on April 15, Chief Lovelace was also sworn in as Chief of Police in a “soft swearing in ceremony,” according to NBPD, noting a formal swearing in ceremony, which will be open to the public, will be held a later date.

North Branford Board of Police Commissioners supported Pendleton for the role , which was formerly filled by Lovelace during the five-year tenure of former NBPD Chief of Police Kevin Halloran, who retired in January, 2024.

According to information shared by NBPD, Deputy Chief Pendleton began his new role with NBPD upon retiring from the Connecticut State Police (CSP) and the Connecticut State's Attorney's office. Pendleton retired at the rank of Major and supervised the Central District Major Crimes Unit. He also served as a special investigator for the State's Attorney's Office.

NBPD also shared Pendleton holds a master's degree and attended the prestigious Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) National Academy.

“Michael brings a wealth of experience to North Branford as he has served in various roles with CSP including supervising the professional standards unit, FBI task force, Governor's security unit as well as many more,” NBPD stated.