The community of Plymouth is mourning the loss of a key figure in public safety after the city announced that Mr. Mike Goldstein, former Public Safety Director and Police Chief, died following a medical incident on Tuesday. His death, detailed in an announcement by the city, comes after Goldstein retired in January 2021, capping off a career that made indelible marks over thirty years of service.
"We are heartbroken with the news of Mike’s passing," said Erik Fadden, the current Public Safety Director/Police Chief, who served alongside Goldstein for 16 years. "Mike leaves behind a lasting and unmatched legacy. He inspired everyone who met him – a true servant leader whose contributions to public safety will be felt for years to come," Fadden expressed in a statement echoed by the city's press release. Flags in Plymouth have been lowered to half-mast as a sign of respect and mourning for a man who dedicated his life to the betterment of the community.
A local through and through, Goldstein's commitment to Plymouth began in his youth. His journey with law enforcement started as a high school student in Plymouth’s first class of Police Explorers in 1984 and continued as he became part of the initial group of Plymouth Police Reserves. His ascent through the ranks is a narrative of dedication and leadership: from full-time sworn officer in 1990 to sergeant, lieutenant, captain, police chief in 2004, and ultimately the city’s first public safety director in 2015, per the city's announcement.
The city and its residents are currently sharing condolences and paying tributes to a man described as "one in a million" by Fadden. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the Goldstein family," said Fadden, a sentiment that the Plymouth community at large no doubt shares during this time of remembrance for a figure synonymous with their collective sense of safety and public service.
