For 46 years John Swick has worn a badge on behalf of the Middleport Police Department in New York, but later this week the long-serving chief will step away and transition into retirement. He has been the town’s chief since 1987.

It is believed he is the longest-serving police chief in the state, reported the Lockport Union-Sun & Journal.

“To do 46 years in any career is a long time but to do 46 years in police work is virtually unheard of,” Niagara County Sheriff Michael Filicetti told the newspaper.

The outgoing chief can trace his interest in law enforcement back to his high school days when he recalls a Middleport police officer visiting his class. That inspired Swick to study criminal justice at Niagara County Community College.

Swick joined the department in March 1978, at age 19, and for many years worked late nights. Even after being named chief, he continued to work nights for about three years until he gained approval to hire another officer.

As he retires, Swick said he doesn’t plan to wander far away from his hometown that he served for decades.