07272018 - Interim Police Chief (July 2018) JCI FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DENTON Jessica Rogers • (940) 349-7531 • Jessica.Rogers@cityofdenton.com
City of Denton Announces Bobby Smith as Assistant Chief
Smith also Named Interim Chief of Police
DENTON, TX,July 27,2018—The City of Denton has announced the selection of Lt. Bobby
Smith as Assistant Chief. Assistant Chief Smith will also serve as Interim Chief of Police. Smith
will begin his interim duties on July 27, following the resignation of Police Chief Lee Howell.
"Selecting an interim police chief was the best opportunity to provide continuity of leadership for
the employees of the Denton Police Department," said City Manager Todd Hileman. "Interim
Chief Smith demonstrated that he has the experience and knowledge to lead the department and
will provide stability and consistency during this period of transition. He will make an excellent
assistant chief and interim chief."
Smith has been a member of the Denton Police Department for 23 years. He has served as a
sergeant, lieutenant, field training officer, and detective sergeant. He also served on the DPD
tactical team(SWAT) for eight years. Prior to joining DPD, Smith served four years in the
United States Marine Corps. Smith holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science and a Master of
Science in criminal justice leadership and management. He is also a graduate of the Law
Enforcement Management Institute of Texas's (LEMIT) Leadership Command College.
"I am very excited about the opportunity to assist in leading our department as we await the
selection of the new police chief," said Interim Chief Smith. "I appreciate the confidence placed
in me and I look forward to working closely with our staff as we continue to meet the safety
needs of our city."
In addition to the selection of Smith as Assistant and Interim Chief of Police, Lt. Frank Padgett
and Lt. Chris Summitt were also named deputy police chiefs, and will report to Interim Chief
Smith.
The City is using the services of Ralph Andersen&Associates to conduct a nation-wide search
for the new police chief. The position has been posted and the deadline to apply is today, July 27.
After reviewing all applications and selecting finalists, there will be a two-day inclusive
interview process. The interview process will include receptions for both the public and the City
Council to provide feedback to the City Manager, who will hire the police chief. The interviews
will be held August 30 and 31. Additional information will be released as details are finalized.
Visit www.cityofdCDton.com for more news and to stay updated.
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