Kent County Times

Mayor Brett P. Smiley and Colonel Hugh T. Clements, Jr. today announced the search process for the next Chief of Police of the Providence Police Department. The Chief of Police will play a critical role in the Smiley Administration, as it focuses on increasing public safety, building strong community relations across the city and addressing quality-of-life crimes.

 

“Colonel Clements has built an incredible command staff and has led the Department with distinction for over 10 years,” said Mayor Brett Smiley. “We are looking for the right individual to lead our police force to ensure everyone that lives, works and visits our city feels safe. Our next Chief of Police will build on Providence’s community policing strategy, which is why I am proud we developed a process that engages Providence residents and businesses in selecting the next Chief.”

 

Beginning today, the job description will be available on the city’s website with applications accepted on a rolling basis. Simultaneously, a bilingual survey will be distributed digitally and by phone to engage the community on what qualities they would like to see in the next leader of the Providence Police Department.

 

Applicants will be initially reviewed by Mayor Smiley, Colonel Clements and James Monteiro for qualifications, prior experience, leadership skills, fitting community needs as identified in the survey and a thorough background check will be conducted to assess job readiness and eligibility.

 

Final candidates will attend a public forum facilitated by Nonviolence Institute Executive Director Cedric Huntley and community leader Dr. Pablo Rodriguez where candidates will be asked questions developed through the survey. Top candidates will be able to demonstrate a commitment to excellence, and eagerness to build community trust and ensure public safety.  The community forum for candidates will be held on February 8th, 2023 at 5:30PM, with more information to be announced in the following weeks.

 

A final decision on Chief of Police will be made by the Mayor.

Original source can be found here.