BARTOW, Fla. – The City of Bartow is moving closer to selecting its next Chief of Police, narrowing the field to four highly qualified candidates.
After a nationwide search that attracted nearly 50 applicants, the city has invited four finalists to participate in an on-site interview process from November 12th to 14th. The process will include meetings with city commissioners and panel interviews with community members, external partners, and police department personnel.
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The public is invited to meet the finalists at a Community Meet & Greet on Wednesday, November 13th, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Mulligans Bar & Grill in Bartow.
The Finalists:
- Greg Goreck: Former Haines City Police Chief with over 30 years of experience in Florida law enforcement. Holds master’s degrees in business administration and management.
- Javaro Sims: Former Delray Beach Police Chief with extensive experience in various roles within the department. Holds a master’s degree in criminal justice administration.
- Steve Walker: Current Deputy Chief of the Bartow Police Department. Has served in numerous leadership roles within the Bartow and Lakeland Police Departments. Holds a master’s degree in criminal justice.
- Theresa Odum: Current Chief of Police for the Forest Preserve of Cook County (Illinois) Police Department. Has over 33 years of experience in Illinois law enforcement, including with the Chicago Police Department. Holds a master’s degree in police psychology.
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“I am proud to say that the Bartow Police Department is made up of men and women who exude professionalism, strive for greatness and pursue justice for all,” said City Manager Mike Herr. “We believe in this team and are proud of them. As we turn the page, we are excited to introduce a new Chief of Police and trust that it will be the best chapter in the history of the Bartow Police Department ever written.”
The city encourages residents to attend the Meet & Greet to learn more about the finalists and provide input on this important decision.
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