Hatboro Recognizes Longtime, Retiring Cop

A day after he rode through town, perpetually waving to everyone who shouted his name at the Hatboro Holiday Parade, Hatboro police officer Bob Ottey earned some recognition. 

Hatboro Police Chief James Gardner took a few minutes during the borough council's meeting Monday to honor Ottey, who will retire from the force on Dec. 2 after 41 years of service. 

"I've had the privilege of knowing and working with Bob for over 25 years now," Gardner said. "It has truly been an adventure."

Gardner said he believed the "hometown guy" Ottey has been the department's longest-serving cop in the town's history. 

"He's really what Hatboro’s all about," said Gardner, who presented Ottey with a certificate, as well as a retired officer's badge. "He always has the best interest of the community at heart."

Councilman Robert Hegele, who retired from the Hatboro Police Department, said he worked with Ottey for 27 of his 41 years. 

"He's going to be missed," Hegele said.