Chief Timothy Heinz Retires After 38 Years of Service

Norfolk’s Police Chief Timothy Heinz has retired after 38 years of service, and James Barrett is now the new Chief of Police.

Chief Barrett began his tenure on Sept. 1, bringing with him more than three decades of law enforcement and leadership experience. 

A decorated veteran of the U.S. Army and a career law enforcement leader, Barrett most recently served as Police Operations Lieutenant for the Holliston Police Department, overseeing detectives, school resource officers, patrol, traffic enforcement, and court prosecution. He also commanded the Metropolitan Law Enforcement Council’s Investigative Services Unit and Child Abduction Response Team.

Previously, Barrett spent nearly 30 years with the Wrentham Police Department, serving as a detective sergeant, patrol sergeant, and officer. His extensive career includes leading multi-agency investigations, managing evidence, and prosecuting in Massachusetts Trial Courts. Beyond policing, Barrett has served as an adjunct professor at Dean College, a certified state police instructor, and co-founder of the Holliston Coalition Against Hate and Bias.

“I am deeply honored to have been chosen to serve as Norfolk’s next Chief of Police,” Barrett said in a statement. “I look forward to getting to know and working closely with the dedicated men and women of the department, town leadership, and our community members to continue building on Norfolk’s strong tradition of public safety.”

While Barrett begins his new chapter, Norfolk is also celebrating the distinguished career of Chief Heinz, who has dedicated his professional life to public safety in Norfolk and beyond. Heinz began his career in 1987 as a dispatcher before becoming a full-time police officer in 1989. Over the years, he rose through the ranks, serving as sergeant, lieutenant, and ultimately being named Chief of Police in 2022.

As Chief, Heinz advanced the department by enrolling Norfolk in the Massachusetts Police Accreditation Program, expanding traffic enforcement, strengthening officer wellness initiatives, and establishing operational planning for major community events.

Heinz’s service extended beyond Norfolk, with more than three decades as a firefighter and EMT in Wrentham. Over his career, he was recognized for acts of bravery and public service, including rescuing a fire victim, assisting in childbirth during a blizzard, locating endangered individuals, and helping save lives during emergencies. He was honored with numerous commendations, including the MassCop Union President’s Award for heroism during a condominium explosion.