The Valparaiso Police Department announced on their Facebook page the retirement of Patrol Officer Phil Rochon after nearly 26 years of service to the department and community
Rochon began his law enforcement career by serving the Ogden Dunes community from 1997 to 2000 and was hired by the Valparaiso Police Department on May 16, 2000. A graduate of Elston High School in Michigan City, Indiana, Class of 1992, Phil also honorably served in the United States Army Reserves from 1991 to 1999 as a Military Police Officer, achieving the rank of Specialist. His education includes an associate’s degree in building construction management from Ivy Tech Community College in 2018 and a technical certificate in computer aided design earned in 2017.
“Throughout his career, Phil served in several specialty assignments, including the Porter County Drug Task Force from 2002–2004 and 2005–2009, briefly leaving in 2004 to instruct and develop the department’s Bike Patrol Program, Investigations from 2010–2012, and the Department of Technology from 2015–2026, where he played a pivotal role in launching the division and creating the department’s Drone Program,” VPD said on their Facebook page. “His service was recognized with an Honorable Mention in 2004 and being named Officer of the Year in 2015. In addition, he proudly represented Team Indiana in hockey at the 2001 World Police and Fire Games, where he also served as a Torch Bearer.”
“It’s been incredible to work with someone who is not only outstanding at what they do, but also someone who makes every day better for the people around them,” stated Chief Andrew McIntyre. “Thank you for the years of service, dedication, and friendship. Working alongside you has been both a privilege and a pleasure.”