Piqua names next police chief

PIQUA — Piqua Police Lt. Rick Byron will take the reins as chief once current Chief Bruce Jamison retires, the city announced Thursday.

Byron will be sworn in by June.

“I am proud of Lt. Byron and his hard work to achieve this promotion,” Jamison said. “The citizens of Piqua can be very confident in this selection.”

Jamison has not set an official date, but plans to retire sometime in the spring.

He’s served with Piqua police for 30 years, including 10 as chief.

Potential candidates were assessed on three components — a written exercise, mock press conference and mock community meeting — and were interviewed by a five-person panel.

“All of our candidates demonstrated strong commitment and dedication to their individual jobs and to the citizens of Piqua during their presentation of qualification throughout this process.” said Catherine Bogan, human resources director. “I am proud of the Piqua Police Department and this group of excellent officers in particular.”