Norfolk Police promote officer with 35 years experience to Captain

NORFOLK, Neb. — An officer with more than three decades of experience is ascending to a captain position in the Norfolk Police Division.

The City of Norfolk announced that Ted McCarthy is being promoted to captain on Saturday. A news release says McCarthy has more than 35 years of law enforcement experience. He started his career with Norfolk Police in 1990 and has served as a detective, sergeant and lieutenant of detectives over his tenure.

“With 35 years of dedicated and unblemished service, Ted brings a wealth of experience and leadership. He knows where we have been, and he has the vision to lead us where we need to go,” said Brian Tighe, Police Chief.

According to the release, McCarthy has also served in specialized roles including tactical team member, field training officer, and defensive tactics instructor. The department named him Officer of the Year in 2010 and he received the Optimist Club’s Meritorious Conduct Award in 2024.

“After 35 years with Norfolk Police, I am truly honored to step into the role of Police Captain. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of learning from outstanding supervisors whose leadership has helped shape my path,” said McCarthy. “The entire staff at the Norfolk Police Division has been incredible to work with — they are hardworking, dedicated, and deeply committed to serving our community.”

As operations captain, McCarthy will oversee the Operations Bureau, which includes patrol, criminal investigations, and community service. With McCarthy’s promotion, the Norfolk Police Division will now begin the process of filling vacant lieutenant positions.