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Chief Harris resigns; search to begin for his successor

Longtime Chandler Police Chief Bobby Joe Harris has announced his retirement, effective April 26.

Harris has been a member of the department for 32 years and was named chief in 1994.

On Feb. 3, Chief Harris began a 12-week medical leave of absence under the Family Medical Leave Act.

A national search for Harris’ successor will begin shortly. In the interim, Lt. Dave Neuman will serve as acting chief and Assistant City Manager Rich Dlugas will be relocated to the Police Department to assist the acting chief and consultants conducting an operational review.

One of the considerations given for appointing Neuman is that he does not plan to apply for the chief’s position. This gives any within the department who are interested in applying for the position the opportunity to submit an application as part of the national recruitment.

“Chief Harris has dedicated 30-plus years of his life to the city of Chandler and the Chandler Police Department,” City Manager Donna Dreska said.

“At this time, he is making the decision that is best for him, his family and the department. I wish the chief and his wife, Judy, the best.”

    Harris began his law enforcement career in Clovis, N.M., in 1969.  He and his family moved to Chandler, where he joined the Police Department in 1971.

    Neuman has been with the department for 17 years. Most recently, he worked as section commander for professional standards.

    Over the years, he has also worked in Criminal Investigations, Special Assignments Unit, Communications and Patrol. Prior to starting his career in 1986 with the Chandler Police Department, Neuman served as a police officer in Lake Mills, Iowa, from 1979-80 and in Storm Lake, Iowa, from 1980 to 1986.

    He has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and sociology from Buena Vista University in Storm Lake, Iowa, and a master’s degree from Northern Arizona University in educational leadership.

    In addition, he has attended the California Post management course and is a graduate of the Southern Police Institute’s leadership program.

   “The chief’s leadership has allowed the Chandler Police Department to grow and make many advancements throughout the years,” Neuman said.

   “The list of accomplishments is long. For his leadership, dedication and devotion we honor him. We will miss him and wish him well in his future endeavors.

   “My role as interim chief is to manage the day-to-day operations of (the department) during (its) transition as the city begins the selection process for a new chief. I’ll be working closely with…Rich Dlugas and (the department) staff during this time.

   The (department) has challenges ahead, and I look forward to working with the men and women of the department, city staff and the members of the community to address the issues.”

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