Dover Police Chief Breault to retire, accept post in Vermont

posted on 8/5/2025

Police Chief William Breault will retire from the Dover Police Department this fall after 27 years of service to the city. His last day on the job will be Sept. 19.

Breault, who has served as chief since 2018, has accepted the same position in South Burlington, Vermont. He is set to begin his new role on Oct. 6.

City Manager J. Michael Joyal Jr. informed the City Council of Breault’s retirement this week, praising his leadership and contributions.

“Chief Breault’s retirement will mark the end of 27 years of dedicated and successful service to the Dover community,” Joyal said. “Throughout Chief Breault’s tenure, he has ensured that our police department and the staff that comprise the department adhere to the highest standards of excellence in policing.”

Breault joined the department in 1998 as a patrol officer and rose steadily through the ranks. Under his leadership, the department has maintained its accredited status and earned recognition for developing and implementing best practices in community policing.

Joyal said the city will seek input from residents, community leaders and members of the police department in the coming weeks to identify the most qualified candidate to succeed Breault. He hopes to name a new chief in time for a brief overlap and smooth transition.

“We are fortunate in knowing that he will be leaving having successfully developed and led an exceptional staff,” Joyal added. “Please join me in congratulating and sharing the sincerest of gratitude to Chief Breault for his outstanding service as he moves on to new challenges.”