Dennis Albert knows a thing or two about law enforcement. A 26-year veteran with the Kent County Sheriff’s Office, he has done everything from road patrol to undercover detective work to supervising a team of sworn officers. Now, he’s trying his hand at a new role: Chief of the Lowell Police Department.
“It’s exciting,” Albert says. “I’m really looking forward to it.”
The new police chief took the reins after Chris Hurst retired last month, and Albert says that while he loved working with the county, the Lowell department offers a different challenge and a chance to forge community relationships.
From Farming Family to Law Enforcement
Albert grew up on a family farm and graduated as part of the Belding High School Class of ’94. While from an agricultural background, he is one of four brothers in the family – out of five – to end up in a law enforcement career.
“I can remember playing cops and robbers with (my brothers),” Albert recalls. “I never wanted to be the bad guy.”
He says there was no specific moment or experience that led him to work in law enforcement. Instead, it was simply something he always wanted to do.
“I’m sure it had something to do with the with the entertainment industry,” Albert suggests. The police were almost always portrayed as the hero in the movies and shows he watched when younger.
Varied Career with the County
During this long tenure with the Kent County Sheriff’s Office, Albert filled many roles. He joined the force as a cadet while still in college. Once a sworn officer, he served on road patrol and as a paramedic before later being assigned to a fugitive task force.
“We used to go out and look for people wanted for violent crimes,” Albert says of his work on the task force.
Eventually, Albert was assigned to an uncover narcotics unit, which he describes as “very interesting work.” But it was his family services assignment that was most impactful, Albert says.
Within family services, he worked on criminal sexual conduct cases – often “horrific cases” involving children. It was difficult work, but Albert also says that it was rewarding when justice could be served and victims brought to safety.
By the end of his time with the Sheriff’s Office, Albert had risen to the rank of lieutenant and worked in a supervisory role.
“It’s a different role,” he says of the move to more desk work. “You’re running the business so to speak.”
A return to road patrol and community engagement is part of what made the job in Lowell so appealing.
Goals: Training and Technology
When it comes to his work in Lowell, Albert says training and technology are two of his priorities.
“Technology is always evolving,” he notes. “We are trying to stay one step ahead of the criminals.”
Already, he has gained approval from Lowell City Council to update and expand body cams and vehicle cameras for the police department.
As far as officer training, Albert says the department already has a good staff, and his goal is to continue to foster cooperation and coordination both within the department and with outside agencies and organizations.
“I’m glad to be here,” Albert says when asked what he’d like the community to know. “This department will be ready for whatever comes our way.”
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