After 26 years with the Dover Police Department, Chief William Fenniman is moving on to new pastures.

Department of Health and Human Services Commissioner John Stephen recently appointed Fenniman as head of the N.H. Division for Juvenile Justice Services. His final day as Dover’s top cop will be this Friday, Jan. 26, and he dives into his state position three days later.

Fenniman met with Gov. John Lynch before being appointed to the post, and he has since met with staff at the NHDJJS.

“It’s gonna be a great challenge,” Fenniman said. “They do excellent work and I’m looking forward to being part of it.”
But after 17 years at the helm in Dover, Fenniman said the transition to a new job will be difficult.

“I didn’t realize how emotional it would be until I told the staff around here last Friday,” the chief said. “It was very emotional, and it’s gonna be very hard, but I know the operation here is not the best in the state; it’s the best in the country.”

Fenniman’s replacement has not been determined, but he’s confident the force will continue to thrive without him. He will continue residing in Dover with his wife and two children.