Former Connecticut trooper recommended to be Block Island’s next police chief

NEW SHOREHAM, R.I. (WLNE) — The New Shoreham Town Manager Maryanne Crawford announced a recommendation for a new police chief Thursday.

According to public documents, Crawford is nominating retired Connecticut Trooper Christopher High to take the reigns as the island’s next chief.

The five-person selection committee picked High by a unanimous decision from 10 applicants.

Crawford described the process out of the ten people who applied for the position.

High spent 21 years with the Connecticut State Police. He finished his career there as a narcotics field office commander. He also served in the Rhode Island National Guard for 21 years before retiring in 2017.

“In speaking with each of Chris’ references, they all emphasized he has always been a natural leader beyond his years, collaborative in his approach to problem solving, a good listener, and
able to work across multiple agencies, confidentially,” said Crawford, adding she is looking to sign High to a long-term agreement to bring “stability” to the position.

High will need final approval to take over as chief from the Town Council, which is slated to vote on his appointment Monday.

Interim Police Chief Peter Chabot, who has been serving the island since June, told ABC 6 News he did not apply for the permanent position.

Matthew Moynihan left his position as police chief of New Shoreham to become Chief of South Kingstown police in June.

Moynihan held the position for just over a year after taking over Vin Carlone.

High’s expected appointment comes as members of the council have raised concerns about excessive alcohol use on the island, which prompted a meeting with the bar and restaurant community Monday.