Steve Palmer has served as a Patrol Officer with the New Milford Police Department since 2004, where he has held numerous specialized roles including Detective, SWAT Team Leader, Tactical Flight Officer, and certified POSTC Instructor in multiple areas such as Use of Force, Search and Seizure, Civil Liability, Active Aggressor Response, Arrest and Control, Courtroom Testimony, and Physical Fitness. He has been recognized with multiple unit citations, commendations, and instructional awards for excellence in both field and training assignments.
Admitted to the Connecticut Bar in 2020, he practices law with a strong focus on issues affecting law enforcement, including use of force, search and seizure, First Amendment rights, civil liability, and legislative updates.
A proud United States Marine Corps veteran, Steve served in the infantry from 2001 to 2008, deploying in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. Rising to the rank of Sergeant, he led Marines during combat operations in Fallujah, Iraq, and conducted anti-terrorism, security, and humanitarian missions in the Middle East and Europe. His service earned multiple awards, including two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals (one with Combat Distinguishing Device), the Combat Action Ribbon, and the Iraqi Campaign Medal.
Steve earned a Juris Doctor from the University of Connecticut School of Law, graduating with honors in the top quintile of the evening division class, and a B.S. in Criminal Justice from Post University, graduating summa cum laude.
Today, Steve combines legal expertise, frontline policing experience, and military leadership to provide a unique perspective in matters of law enforcement training, litigation, and public safety.