Green named assistant chief
by JESSICA L. FINCH Associate Editor

Timothy Green

From the moment Timothy Green was named to the Amherst Police Department patrol he has been honored to serve the town where he grew up.

That feeling has continued through 24 years as lieutenant, captain and now assistant chief.

Green was appointed to his new position on July 2 by the Amherst Town Board. He replaced John C. Askey, who was named the successor to Chief John Moslow at the end of June.

"I am really excited ... but it hasn't set in yet," Green said as he prepared for the transition. He officially assumed the assistant chief's post on Tuesday.

As Green and the department handle the staffing changes, he credits Moslow with preparing him for the position.

"I learned a lot from Chief Moslow. He has had a big influence on me ... he has a great work ethic," Green said, noting that no one works harder than the retired chief.

Green's appointment to assistant chief marks the end of a successful run as captain of the Detective Bureau. During his more than five years in the position, Green oversaw a professional group of detectives and handled many high profile cases.

With at least five murders investigated by his team, Green reflected on closure of the James Kopp and Altemio Sanchez cases.

"The Detective Bureau cooperated successfully with other agencies. I think I can bring (those skills) with me to the capacity of assistant chief," Green said about working with the staff and other law enforcement agencies.

He said he is ready to work alongside Askey; it's something they have done for years. Both served as lieutenants and captains during the years before Askey was named assistant chief in 2006.

"We don't know what changes will come to the community or what events will happen. But I think we have similar thoughts on how to keep the department on task and serve the people in town by staffing the best people," Green said.

Askey echoed the sentiments of Green, saying his experience and training will be an asset to him.

"Assistant Chief Green would be the first to jump in and work. He is willing to extend himself. Crimes don't happen from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. I know he would come in day or night, and I can depend on him," Askey said.

When Askey was named a captain in 1999 he said he looked to Green, who was a captain, for guidance.

Askey also commended Green's efforts with the several murders in which he led investigations, adding that Green's experience in the Detective Bureau will be a great asset.

"He takes charge of a scene," Askey said, adding that the new assistant chief has always helped when and where needed.

With a number of retirements in the Police Department, academy candidates are being reviewed and promotions given throughout the ranks.

As someone serving in a new role, Green said he knows the department can benefit from these changes as the officers bring new talents with them.

"It's the opportunity to try something different," he said, adding that when he first had the opportunity to try for a lieutenant's position, he realized his passion for leadership within the department.

Green has a long history in the town, being born and raised in Williamsville and graduating from South High School. He earned a degree in criminal justice and was hired by the town in 1983.

As the town's new assistant chief of police, Green said the opportunity arose at the right time.

"I have always been happy where I was ... it's about timing, and this fell into place," he said.

When he was joined by his family at the time of the Town Board appointment, he thanked them for their years of support as he worked holidays and "crazy" hours.

In addition to Green's promotion, the Town Board also named Eric J. Davis to police lieutenant from officer; and Richard S. Walter, lieutenant of detectives, from police lieutenant. He replaced Richard Faulhaber, who retired.