Ottawa police Sgt. Donahue retires after 23 years of service

The Ottawa Police Department wished Sgt. Brenden Donahue a happy and safe retirement Friday.

Donahue signed off for one last time to dispatch Friday surrounded by family, friends and co-workers who greeted him with applause.

“It has been an honor to serve the citizens of this fine community for all these years and to lead such a dedicated group of individuals,” Donahue said.

He said he was humbled and wished his colleagues continued safety.

Donahue spent 13 years as the school resource officer with Ottawa Elementary School District 141 before being promoted to corporal in October 2016 and now a sergeant. He educated students through Ottawa’s DARE program.

After he announced his retirement, a dispatcher said Donahue was a reliable presence on the street and set a standard of professionalism for the police department to strive to achieve.

Donahue’s Badge No. 7 was “10-42,” ending his tour of duty, dispatch said in conclusion.