NAHANT — It was a historic occasion at Town Hall Wednesday afternoon as the Police Department’s first full-time female officer, Heather Leary, was sworn into her new position.
Leary has served as a reserve officer for the Nahant Police Department for more than a year, but will now be patrolling the streets of the small community on a full-time basis. She said it feels great to officially be sworn in.
“It’s just finally becoming real to me so I’m really excited for the opportunity,” said Leary, who spent some time working in public safety in Revere before joining the Nahant Police Department.
Being the first woman to take on such a role is a point of pride for Leary, who said she felt that she was where she needed to be after serving on a part-time basis in town. She said she loves being part of the community in Nahant.
“Everybody works well together,” said Leary. “Everybody’s friendly. Everybody gives a helping hand.”
Being the first female police officer going into an all-male environment can be challenging, but Leary said that her colleagues have been great to work with. Leary also noted that she believes she is the first woman to apply for a full-time position with the department.
“Everybody’s reached out (and) congratulated me,” said Leary. “Everybody’s given me a little bit of advice here and there. If I have any questions, (I can) feel free to reach out to them. Everybody’s willing to help me out any chance that I need so that my career is successful here.”
Police Chief Timothy Furlong, who was also sworn into his new role last week, said that bringing on Leary is a huge step forward for policing in town. Leary agreed, saying that she thinks it’s an important moment for the town.
“I think it means great things are happening in the future,” she said. “They are giving everybody a fair shot and they are opening up and being super welcoming.”
Furlong has only worked with Leary a few times, but said that she fits into the department well.
“She has a great personality,” said Furlong. “She’s going to fit right in, and she has no problem putting the boys to shame.”
Having the support of the police chief means a lot to Leary, who noted that “it feels great.
“It makes me feel like I can do anything.”
