Goodbye, Theo Wiegand: 45 years of police service and new adventures await!

Goodbye, Theo Wiegand: 45 years of police service and new adventures await!

The police world has lost a great representative, as Theo Wiegand, the long-time deputy chief of the East Hesse police headquarters, has started his well-deserved retirement after 45 years of service to the Hessian police. At 61, Wiegand can look back on an impressive career that began in 1980 with the Hessian riot police. He has served in various positions, including as service group leader in Offenbach, Kassel and Hünfeld. His career was characterized by commitment and his remarkable negotiating skills, which led him through numerous crisis situations.

On Tuesday, Theo Wiegand was farewelled in a celebratory ceremony by acting state police vice president Felix Paschek and police chief Michael Tegethoff. This event not only marked the end of a chapter, but also the transfer of responsibility to the new department head Dirk Stippich, who was introduced into office as an experienced successor. Wiegand has held leadership positions in the East Hesse Police Headquarters for the past two decades. He remained committed to the end, emphasized the importance of teamwork in operational situations and shouldered the responsibility of police leader in critical moments.

A life of service

The emotions of the last few years of Wiegand's career were not always easy to process. Tragic missions left their mark, but they only made the police officer stronger. He was known for his ability to make clear statements while always remaining willing to compromise. After moving to the East Hesse police headquarters in 2003, Wiegand became particularly known as head of the operations department, where he worked until handing over to Stippich in November 2023.

Police Commissioner Michael Tegethoff praised Wiegand's commitment and thanked him for his remarkable work, which contributed significantly to the protection of citizens and security in the region. “We wish you all the best for the coming years,” said Tegethoff, referring to Wiegand’s new phase of life. With a smile, the retired civil servant announced that he was happy to no longer have to be available 24/7 and to finally have more time for his family.

A new phase of life

Retirement now offers Wiegand the freedom he always wanted. As a grandpa, he is happy to spend more time with his loved ones while pursuing his hobby of motorcycling. The garden is also just waiting to be kept in good condition by him. Wiegand is looking forward to the coming months, in which he can enjoy time with his 87-year-old mother and his wife.

Dirk Stippich, who has now taken over, also brings a wealth of experience with him. He began his career with the Hessian police in 1981 and has established himself in various areas, from criminal investigations to management positions. His time as a lecturer at the Hessian University for Public Management and Security makes him a competent choice for the new position.

Overall, Theo Wiegand's retirement marks the end of years of commitment, whose values ​​and successes will continue under the leadership of Dirk Stippich. The transition has been successful and the citizens of East Hesse can continue to rely on a professional police force that is determined to ensure the safety of their communities.

For detailed insights into Wiegand's career and the farewell ceremony, go here to Osthessen News and Rhönkanal.