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Linskey sworn in as Boston Police superintendent-in-chief

E-mail|Link|Comments () September 9, 2009 08:11 PM

Essdras M. Suarez/Globe Staff

Colm Linskey, 11, looked up proudly at his father, Daniel P. Linskey, during the swearing-in at the Boston Latin School. Daniel Linskey's mother, Kay Linskey (left), and his other son, Eamon, 14, also looked on.

By Abbie Ruzicka, Globe Correspondent

Daniel P. Linskey was officially appointed superintendent-in-chief of the Boston Police Department tonight in a ceremony at his alma mater, the Boston Latin School.

Linskey, who has served 23 years with the department, took over the position from Robert Dunford, who retired last month. Linskey, who has worked on patrol, investigative, training and drug control assignments, was appointed deputy superintendent in 2006 and was later appointed superintendent in 2007.

He has been working as superintendent-in-chief since this month, but was officially sworn in today.

Mayor Thomas M. Menino described Linskey as a quick thinker who has remained unselfish and helpful in the city’s fight to keep crime out of Boston neighborhoods.

“His efforts have produced good results,” he said.

Suffolk District Attorney Daniel F. Conley said he was proud of his friend “Danny,” who he grew up with in Hyde Park. Conley said he and Linskey became friendly later in life, when Conley was working as assistant district attorney and Linskey starting as an officer in the force.

“He never lost his passion,” he said.

Speaking with humor and a sense of pride, Linskey cited his old neighborhood and the Boston Latin School as his launching pad to the Marine Corps and eventually to the Police Department.

He said he decided to be a police officer after he was mugged by two thugs.

“They took my pride … and left me helpless," he said. "I decided I was going to be a cop, and Lord help the person who tried to rob me again.”

City council members Michael Ross and state Representative Angelo Scaccia were also present along with Police Commissioner Edward F. Davis, who said Linskey has served with honesty and compassion. Linskey will be Davis's second-in-command.

Linskey's mother, Kay; his wife, Michelle; children Colm and Eamon; and brother, police Sergeant Michael Linskey, joined in the badge-pinning ceremony.