Colonel Stéphane Tourtin, the outgoing commander of the Eure-et-Loir Gendarmerie Group, was recently honored with a heartfelt farewell ceremony in Chartres. The event, held at the prestigious Ligneris hotel, brought together over 60 attendees, including staff members, elected officials, and Senator Chantal Deseyne. The atmosphere was one of warmth and appreciation for the colonel’s dedication to the community.
The ceremony was a time to reflect on Colonel Tourtin’s three-year tenure in the department. General Philippe Ott, the Regional Commander of the Centre-Val de Loire Gendarmerie, and other prominent figures, including the public prosecutor Frédéric Chevallier and the prefect Hervé Jonathan, delivered heartfelt speeches. They highlighted the colonel’s outstanding achievements and the impactful initiatives he spearheaded during his time in Eure-et-Loir.
A Legacy of Collaboration and Innovation
The speakers praised Colonel Tourtin’s ability to forge strong relationships with local elected officials. His charismatic personality and forward-thinking approach inspired his teams, fostering a culture of dynamism and clear vision. Colonel Tourtin’s dedication to the community was evident in his numerous partnerships and innovative projects. He played a crucial role in establishing the Functional Transport Brigade, advancing video surveillance systems, and overseeing an increase in departmental operations focused on controlling population flow.
He was particularly dedicated to crime prevention, introducing innovative partnerships with various organizations. Notably, he strengthened the Family Protection Unit by bringing in experts in psychology and social assistance. The collaboration extended beyond these efforts, encompassing partnerships with the Bar Association, the Football District, the Chamber of Agriculture, the SPA, France Alzheimer, and Enedis. Through these collaborations, Colonel Tourtin successfully raised the profile and impact of the Gendarmerie Group.
A Positive Track Record and a Bright Future
The speakers also highlighted Colonel Tourtin’s impressive achievements in reducing crime rates. General Ott remarked on the positive trend in the first half of 2024, with a 3% decrease in delinquency. Public prosecutor Frédéric Chevallier echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the Colonel’s “loyalty, transparency, and discerning intellect.”
Looking to the future, Colonel Tourtin will take on a new role as a professor and auditor at the École Militaire de Paris. This new endeavor allows him to pursue his passion for knowledge sharing and education. He expressed his deep gratitude for the ceremony and the strong bonds he formed during his time in Eure-et-Loir.
A Farewell and a New Beginning
Colonel Tourtin’s successor, Julien Andreau, will be taking over the reins as the new commander. Andreau, currently serving as the deputy head of human resources at the Ministry of the Interior, is well-prepared to step into this leadership role.
The farewell ceremony also acknowledged the significant contributions of Colonel Tourtin’s wife, Angélique, who worked at the prefecture. Both are moving on to new roles, with Angélique taking up a position at the Créteil prefecture.
In his final remarks, Colonel Tourtin expressed heartfelt appreciation for his wife, partners, and the entire community he served. He reflected on the highlights of his tenure, including 32 official visits, navigating health crises, managing riots, overseeing recruitment drives, establishing new brigades, and fostering impactful partnerships.
Colonel Tourtin’s departure marks the end of an era for the Eure-et-Loir Gendarmerie Group, but it also opens a new chapter filled with exciting possibilities. As he embarks on his new journey, he leaves behind a legacy of dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment to community service.
