Rochester's sergeant of detectives division retires after 22 years on the force

EMOTONAL SENDOFF: Det. Sgt. Patrick Emerson waves good bye during his retirement ceremony outside Rochester Police Department on Friday afternoon.

ROCHESTER - After 22 years of dedicated service to the Rochester Police Department and community, Det. Sgt. Patrick Emerson called it a career on Friday.

During a short ceremony behind the police station Emerson walked the friendly gauntlet of fellow officers including Rochester Police Chief Paul Toussaint, who presented him with a wood-encased American Flag.

Emerson, surrounded by family, colleagues and friends, showed some emotion as he was presented the flag and waved good bye to the troops.

After being hired in 1999 Emerson attended the full-time Police Academy before being assigned as a Patrol Officer for the department. He later worked as a detective before moving back to patrol duties, where he was promoted to sergeant in 2012.

After spending four years in that capacity he became the sergeant overseeing the Detective Unit in 2016, a position he held up until his retirement.

During his tenure he served as a Motorcycle Officer, Field Training Officer, and member of the Accident Reconstruction Team.

Over the years he was recognized with the Distinguished Unit Award, Honorable Service Award, Life-Saving Award and the 20+ Years of Service Award.

He said on Friday he was looking forward to the next chapter in his life and spending more time with his family.