Ending a 35-year career in law enforcement with the town, Oak Bluffs police chief Erik Blake will retire, the select board announced Tuesday night.
The retirement takes effect June 30.
Board chairman Brian Packish read into the record a press release approved by the board following an executive session at the outset of Tuesday’s meeting. The statement outlined Chief Blake’s contribution to the Oak Bluffs police department in particular, and the town in general.
Chief Blake’s long career began with his employment as a special summer officer in Oak Bluffs.
He was appointed as a full-time officer in 1988, and subsequently rose through the department’s ranks. In 2000, he became a sergeant, and in 2002 he was promoted to lieutenant. In 2003 he was promoted to acting chief and then permanent chief following the departure of Joseph Carter.
During his time with the town, Mr. Blake, who is an Islander, earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Western New England College, and served on a number of police associations and committees.
“When I started listening to that press release, I was like, wow, 1987,” the chief said following the announcement. “I’ve loved every minute.”
Over the years he has held numerous leadership roles on and off the Vineyard. In 2013 he was named president of the Massachusetts Police Chiefs Association, the first Vineyard chief to head the association.
More recently he served as president of the NAACP Martha’s Vineyard chapter, and has been an advocate for social justice on the Island.
On Tuesday night, each member of the board took a moment to thank the chief for his service and dedication to the town.
“You’ve helped in many ways,” board member Jason Balboni said. “You were there without question.”
Member Ryan Ruley, who works as an Edgartown police officer, said he never worked directly under Chief Blake, but appreciated the times they were able to work together.
“He was a big piece of advancing policing over the last 20 years,” Mr. Ruley said.
Chief Blake said the time has come to let someone else take the baton.
“It’s time for the next generation to take over,” he said. “I’m ready for the next chapter.”
The town will work with the chief from now until the end of June to find a replacement.
