Sgt. John Blake of the Antrim Police Department was promoted to chief of police, effective April 1, in a badge-pinning ceremony Monday night at the Antrim Select Board meeting.

The entire Antrim police force turned out to congratulate Blake, along with many well-wishers from the community. Blake’s wife, Alex, performed the pinning ceremony, accompanied by the couple’s 2-year-old son, Knox. Blake, who is originally from Long Island, started his law enforcement career in Virginia. The Blakes moved to New Hampshire to be closer to family. 

After interviewing and considering several outside candidates, the Select Board interviewed Blake for the position Feb. 21 and unanimously approved him to take over as chief. 

“I’m very thankful the town decided to go with an internal hire, and I am really looking forward to all we’re going to be able to accomplish with the community going forward,” Blake said. 

Blake has served Antrim for more than five years and succeeds acting Chief Scott Lester, who has been with the Antrim Police Department since 2008 and will continue to serve part-time. Lester had previously been police chief before resuming the role on a temporary basis after the retirement of Brian Lord.

“The Antrim Select Board is delighted to appoint John Blake as the town’s new chief of police. After 5½ years of steadfast service to Antrim’s residents, increasing departmental responsibilities, and support of his fellow officers, Chief Blake’s promotion is well deserved,” Select Board Chair Michael Ott said on behalf of the board. 

Antrim had been searching for a new candidate for police chief since August 2023.  Greenfield Police Chief Brian Giammarino, who is an Antrim resident and a  part-time Antrim police officer, said he first met Blake working on a case with U.S. Marshals several years ago and was impressed with his skills and experience. 

“I knew there was an opening in Antrim five or six years ago, and I suggested he apply,” Giammarino said Tuesday. “John is a very smart guy, and his tech skills especially are very advanced. I really like him a lot, and he is definitely who the guys wanted, and I think everyone is very happy. We have a great police force in Antrim.” 

During Monday’s meeting, the Select Board presented a plaque thanking Giammarino for his recent service acting as prosecutor for the Antrim Police Department in recent months after the departure of the previous prosecutor.