EPRPD continues to make history as longtime Chief Stewart retires, and first female Chief Adams takes command!

By Sharon E. Siegel

MATAMORAS, PA – Dozens of police, fire, and EMS units and staff, along with family, friends, and members of the community served by Eastern Pike Regional Police Department turned out recently to celebrate the completion of decades of service by retiring EPRPD Chief Chad Stewart.

A traditional Walk Out ceremony was held on July 24, 2026 at Westfall Township Municipal Building/EPRPD Headquarters, during which time Chief Stewart exited the building on his last day of police chief service.  Dozens saluted from both sides of a path formed as Stewart made his way from the building to a podium surrounded by seated officials, members of his family, and other guests.

A reminder of past history-made, and current history-making for the department, were immediate as Stewart’s brother, EPRPD Deputy Chief/Assistant Chief Eric Stewart, welcomed all to the special day’s event.

“I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to all who are joining us here today, and to all supporters, for helping make Chad’s final day of service a truly memorable occasion,” Asst. Chief Stewart began.  “Chief Chad Stewart, congratulations on your well-earned retirement after 30 years of protecting and serving our community with integrity, courage, and distinction.  May your retirement be filled with the same pride and fulfillment you brought to the badge every day.”

Asst. Chief Stewart recalled history being made when EPRPD was officially established on January 7, 2008.  He recalled that just one day earlier, Chad had been serving as Chief of the Westfall Police Department and himself as Chief of Matamoras Police Department.  With the departments’ merger, both left their prior positions to form and lead EPRPD, Chad as Chief of Police and Eric in the position he continues to hold as Deputy/Assistant Chief.

“Eighteen years ago, few would have imagined that two brothers would have the opportunity to lead a police department together.  Some may have questioned whether it could work, but together we proved it could,” Eric said.  “Although we have very different personalities, we shared the commitment to our communities and a mutual respect that allowed us to work together successfully.  I will always value and cherish the years we spent leading EPRPD side by side.  It has been one of the greatest honors of my career.”

Following the chief’s poignant final  ‘Call Off’ radio transmission on local police and Comm Center channels,  EPRPD Sgt. Chelsea Adams was pinned with the Police Chief’s badge transfer, assuming simultaneous leadership of the department – another history-making first.

Although Adams is the first female chief of the department, including prior departments’ pre-merged histories, she hopes her service will inspire other women join and move forward in law enforcement positions.    

Confidence in Adams' leadership was affirmed by others as EPRPD's command was referenced as being passed from “one exemplary leader” to “trusted leadership for the years to come” in closing remarks by Asst. Chief Stewart.

“Today marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter.  Chief Stewart, you have carried this badge with unparalleled integrity, courage and dedication.  As you hang up your uniform and pass on the mantle of leadership, we present you with a symbol of your legacy (certificate presented).”

“Incoming Chief Adams, this badge now represents the immense trust and responsibility of guiding our department forward.”

“Congratulations to both Chief Stewart and Chief Adams.”

Retiring Chief Stewart noted that while he is retiring from the department, he plans to remain active. Both Stewart and Adams expressed eagerness in moving forward to all that their futures may hold.

VIDEO:

https://youtu.be/CPNXUqLc1Do