SPRINGFIELD — For the first time ever, the City of Springfield’s new police chief is a woman.
Allison Elliott was one of 30 people who applied for the job.
Monday was a historic day in Springfield with the announcement of Elliott earning the title of Springfield Police Chief.
“This is a historic moment, and if I said I wasn’t excited, I don’t think I would be candid with you,” Elliott told News Center 7 Mike Campbell.
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Elliott told us she and her husband both grew up in Springfield, they met in Springfield, and she has served the community for almost 17 years as a police officer, rising to the rank of captain.
Now, as she makes history, she is determined to move the community forward in her new and largest role ever.
“Every day I put the uniform on, I will do everything in my power to serve my community with the utmost distinction.”
Elliott said the selection process was challenging, but she’s already turned her attention to the challenges she will face as chief.
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The chairman of the Springfield Community Police advisory team, James Bacon, said, in a diverse community, transparency is a key ingredient to effectiveness.
Bacon explained, “when you are dealing with a diverse community, openness is very important, having an open door policy.”
Elliott added, “the goal is to continue community policing, be visible in our organization and in our community, be involved in community efforts and initiatives.”
Bryan Heck, the city manager, told us Elliott had strong support from the community and from inside the department, but he said this is not an example of just rubber-stamping an internal promotion.
“When you talk about the same old, same old, or what is the change, Allison was the best candidate for this job,” Heck said.
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