Hamburg Borough Police Chief Pedro Rivera patrols the streets of Hamburg for the last time in the days leading up to Feb. 10.
“Yes, Council has decided not to renew my contract. No explanation why, other than they wanted the department to go in a new direction,” Rivera told The Hamburg Item in a recent inverview. “I must say that I have enjoyed my five plus years serving the fine citizens of Hamburg and their visitors. I have made a good number of friends here and although I will not be making my regular visits to the businesses, I do plan on keeping in touch.”
His employment was terminated by a 5-1 Hamburg Borough Council vote on Dec. 26. His last day is Feb. 10.
Rivera began his position as Hamburg’s Police Chief in April 2, 2012. He said, at that time, the police department only had three full-time officers and a handful of part-time officers, most worked full time elsewhere.
“As of December 2017, the department grew to six full-time officers, a part-time criminal investigator, cross designated County Detective (who conducted and assisted in all major crimes i.e., rapes, robberies, aggravated assaults, Fraud, Burglaries and thefts) and two part-time patrolmen,” he said. “The department not only grew in size but in experience and training, executing search warrants, conducting proficient interviews and interrogations, using a new interview room equipped with Video and Audio recording funded by the Berks District Attorney’s Office.”
His roles as the Chief consisted of part-time patrolman, Criminal Investigator, Public Relations Officer, Field Training Officer Supervisor, Custodial evidence Officer, first line supervisor (no Corporals or Sergeants), Crossing Guard Supervisor, Borough Emergency Management Public Relations Officer, Executive Officer of the Police Department, and Member of the Berks County Chief of Police Association.
“Yes, I have worn many hats and have enjoyed wearing them,” said Rivera. “I have spent over the last 35 years of my life dedicated to serving the public, something that I will miss.”
His last day serving as Hamburg’s Police Chief is Feb. 10 after which he will retire from police work.
“I have no plans other than spending time with my father and with my granddaughters, ages 1 and 3, reuniting with Members of the PSP Melley FOP Lodge #65 and attending the Hamburg MOOSE Lodge,” he said.
According to Hamburg Borough Manager Marisa C. Valkosak, a search is under way for a replacement to fill the position of Police Chief. The Borough’s Solicitor Mike Gombar, of Masano Bradley, and Hamburg Borough Council are conducting the search and reviewing candidates.