Greenville Reporter

As retiring Washington Police Department Captain Ronnie Watson and retiring Detective Dean Watson addressed the eager youngsters before them, they imparted cautionary insights into the forthcoming challenges of their chosen profession. These insights come from a combined experience of over 50 years in law enforcement.

Ronnie's retirement is set for December 29, marking an impressive end to his 30-year career with the Washington Police Department (WPD), according to The Washington Daily News. Meanwhile, Dean plans to conclude his own 15-year tenure at WPD on November 30. Although he has been a sworn officer for 33 years, Dean's official retirement will reflect a service of 27 years, including five spent working part-time.

Before embarking on his law enforcement career, Ronnie worked as a mechanic for the City of Washington, specializing in repairing patrol cars. Over time, he built strong relationships with police officers and grew inspired by their commitment to altruistic endeavors. Balancing day work with evening classes led Ronnie to eventually transition from mechanic work to law enforcement.

Dean’s decision to enter law enforcement was sparked during his time at Wayne Community College where he lived with a roommate enrolled in the Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) program. Witnessing his roommate navigate this program inspired him to consider joining the force himself. He made swift moves post-graduation; while visiting his roommate in Currituck County one Saturday, Dean applied to join Elizabeth City Police Department and secured a position within the department just one week later.