HAMDEN, Conn -- The Hamden Police Department announced the sudden death of Officer James Mills on Friday.

Mills served the department and community for over 22 years.

During his career he held various assignments in both the patrol and traffic division. Mills, spent numerous years as a motorcycle officer, was also a field training officer. He received numerous letters of recognition over the years. Furthermore, Mills was a football and baseball coach in the Hamden Father's League.

Mills leaves behind his wife and two sons.

An autopsy was planned for Saturday.