SCITUATE -- Lt. Col. Kevin M. Barry, second in command of the Rhode Island State Police, is retiring after 27 years with the department.
Barry, who was elevated to lieutenant colonel in 2015, confirmed Friday that his last day is June 18.
"I'm truly blessed and honored to be part of this place for so long. I'm humbled and proud to work with these dedicated men and women," Barry said.
Barry is required to retire next year due to his years of service.
"I knew this day was coming," Barry said, adding that he wasn't ready to detail his next steps.
State Police Major Darnell S. Weaver, also a 27-year member of the force, will assume the lieutenant colonel post, Barry said. In that role, Weaver will serve as the highest ranking officer of color ever on the Rhode Island State Police.