Long service: Leading Senior Constable Peter Comte retiring after 41 years of service with Victoria Police. Photo: Wayne Herring
A newly retired police officer made his mark on the streets, in court — and in the kitchen.
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Police officer Peter Comte officially retired on October 12 after serving the people of Seymour for 35 years.
Over the years, he worked with Seymour prosecutors’ Sergeant-in-charge, Bill Rudd-Schmidt.
“I was a supervisor (at the Seymour Police Station), and Peter came from the solo section,” Sgt Rudd-Schmidt said.
“(Solo section was) a motorbike section at number two division in Dawson St, which is a highway patrol.”
“I worked with Peter on and off for six years, both at the Seymour Police Station and highway patrol in Seymour.”
Carrying the memories: Sgt Bill Rudd-Schmidt presents Peter Comte with a memento of his 41-year service with Victoria Police. Photo: Wayne Herring
Sgt Rudd-Schmidt described Mr Comte as a highly competent police officer who was very good with people.
“He has the capacity to settle things down and deal with situations that are volatile and bring calmness to them,” he said.
He said Mr Comte was an excellent negotiator, which benefited the community.
“He has the ability to create rapport with people he’s talking to,” Sgt Rudd-Schmidt said.
“He deals with issues, whether there were issues on the street or issues in the court, and obtain good resolutions.”
When Sgt Rudd-Schmidt was asked if he had any favourite memories of working with Mr Comte, he said it was difficult to pinpoint one.
“He cooked up a very good night shift food, I can tell you that!” he said with a laugh.
Sgt Rudd-Schmidt highlighted his outstanding work as a policeman and prosecutor.
“His capacity as a prosecutor was very good,” he said.
“He had a good knowledge of the law and was a good advocate.”
Outside the police force, Mr Comte completed his undergraduate studies in mental health to further help the community, in addition to volunteering at the CFA.
“It’s good, he’s found a way post-Victoria Police,” Sgt Rudd-Schmidt said.
“I know that he’d done a counselling course, and if he does that, he’ll be very good at it.”
“His contributions to the community ... as a Victorian Police officer and also outside his role has been quite good.”
Sgt Rudd-Schmidt said he was sad to see Mr Comte go.
“I am absolutely positive that he will build another life outside of Victoria Police, and he will enjoy that,” he said.
“The community will benefit from it, and so will he.”
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