'Fast Eddy' hangs up badge after 32 years of police work

Officer Ed Mileham, who joined the Batavia Police Department in 1979, cruised his last patrol today.

Mileham, an Air Force veteran, retires after 32 years of wearing a badge, a career that goes back to 1976 when he joined the Choteau Police Department in Montana. He later returned to New York and joined the Warsaw department before transferring to Batavia.

In his career, Mileham has won several awards, including Office of the Year in 2001 and 2008 from Kiwanis and GCASA's Law Enforcement Award in 2010.

Mileham served as the police department's Drug Court representative and was certified recently to serve in Veterans Court. He's also been a K-9 officer and a member of the Neighborhood Enforcement Team.

Mileham is currently chief of the Indian Falls Fire Department and plans to continue in that role.

Chief Randy Baker said, "His dedication and service to the City of Batavia will certainly be missed."

At the end of his shift today, a Genesee County Dispatcher went on air and said, "Batavia to 126, on behalf of the Genesee County dispatchers, congratulations on your retirement. It's been a pleasure working with you. Good luck in all your future endeavors."

Mileham responded, "Thank you for your 32 years of support."

"Thanks, Fast Eddy," said the dispatcher.

Another added, "Thanks 126, we'll miss you."