Exciting Changes in North Charleston: New Police Chief Search Heats Up!
North Charleston has been buzzing with energy lately as the city takes significant steps towards appointing a new police chief. The search has whittled down to six impressive finalists, who are all set to face their final interviews. If you’re interested in the future of public safety in our area, then you’ll want to know more about these candidates!
Who Are the Finalists?
On September 18, the finalists will meet with a 10-person panel for in-person interviews. Mayor Reggie Burgess, who has a long history with the police department, will ultimately make the selection. He is keen on finding a leader who not only understands the community but also has the chops to handle the challenges that lie ahead.
The search began back in April when former Chief Greg Gomes announced his retirement after nearly three decades of service. With 34 applications coming in from across the country, the city has quite a talent pool to choose from. Without further ado, let’s have a closer look at the finalists.
1. Jason Bruder
Jason Bruder brings 23 years of law enforcement experience to the table and currently works as a captain with the Charleston Police Department, leading the Investigations, Data, and Intelligence Division. As a longtime resident of North Charleston, Bruder has a vested interest in the community he’s served. He holds a master’s degree in homeland security management and has graduated from the FBI’s National Academy.
2. Ronald Camacho
Next up is Ronald Camacho, who currently serves as police chief in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. With 29 years under his belt, Camacho has vast experience, including a stint overseeing patrol operations in York, Pennsylvania. He has also worked as a police advisor in Afghanistan and has a doctorate in criminal justice. His educational background is equally impressive, with degrees from Penn West University and Liberty University.
3. Karen Cordray
Karen Cordray is a North Charleston native and has been with the police department since 1992. In 2018, she made history as the first woman promoted to deputy chief. Not only is she deeply knowledgeable about the department’s inner workings, but she has also implemented vital systems that improve efficiency. Karen is currently attending the leadership program at the University of South Carolina School of Law.
4. Kyle Dowdy
Hailing from New Mexico, Kyle Dowdy has 20 years of law enforcement experience. As deputy chief for the Farmington Police Department, he has tackled various roles, from SWAT to Internal Affairs. His commitment to community engagement shines through as he serves as a liaison to the LGBTQ+ community and is an active member of the task force for Missing or Murdered Indigenous Women. Dowdy boasts multiple degrees in criminal justice and education and even teaches at San Juan College!
5. Angela Johnson
Angela Johnson is making waves in North Charleston, as she became the first Black woman to ascend to the rank of deputy chief in the department’s history. With a career spanning back to 1996, she’s held various roles that show her versatility, and she currently oversees the Investigations Division. Johnson has impressive academic credentials, holding degrees from Claflin College and various leadership courses.
6. Jerri Sutton
Last but not least, we have Jerri Sutton, who serves as chief of staff for the Chattanooga, Tennessee Police Department. With 25 years of experience, Sutton has managed numerous projects and has taken the lead on the department’s training initiatives. Her involvement in community outreach programs, particularly for youth, illustrates her commitment to positive policing.
What’s Next?
The cities’ excitement is palpable as we wait to see who will step into this pivotal role. Each candidate comes with unique experiences and valuable insights, promising to guide the North Charleston Police Department forward. It’s a crucial time for our community as the new chief will not only shape public safety policies but also work to build stronger relationships within the community.
As the final interviews take place, let’s stay tuned and show our support for a smooth transition into North Charleston’s next chapter of public safety leadership!
