David Cayot has officially taken the helm as Hudson’s new police chief. Courtesy photo Hudson Police Department

HUDSON – Following a unanimous vote from the Board of Selectmen, David Cayot has officially taken the helm as chief of the Hudson Police Department.

“I am humbled by the support I received from the men and women of the Hudson Police Department and the community,” he said. “I am excited to continue my journey with HPD as the chief and look forward to working with everyone at the Police Department to fulfill our mission of providing professional police service in partnership with the community through mutual respect and cooperation.”

Cayot said retention and recruitment will be a top priority going forward.

“We strive to provide a culture and work environment that allows us to retain the talented people we currently have,” he said. “Through these efforts, we will then continue to be able to bring in high quality candidates.”

He also highlighted the need for a deputy chief position.

“Creating this position helps with a clear succession plan,” said Cayot. “Succession planning was a goal set forth in the Hudson Police Department’s five-year strategic plan.”

In addition, Cayot is a proponent of rotating employees into other positions with the objective of furthering their careers.

After joining the Hudson Police Department in 2002, Cayot served in nearly every position available including patrol officer, criminal investigator, sergeant, lieutenant and captain.

He was also the commander of the Special Investigations Bureau prior to his appointment as chief.

During his 23 years with the Hudson Police, Cayot received the Hudson Police Life-Saving Award on two occasions and was named the New Hampshire Grange Officer of the Year.

Cayot holds a Bachelor’s degree in chemistry with a minor in business administration from the University of New Hampshire as well as a Master’s degree in public safety from the University of Virginia.

In addition, Cayot is a graduate of the 284th FBI National Academy in Quantico, Va.

He lives in Merrimack with his wife Kimberly and two sons, Alexander and Zachary.