City of Prineville set to announce next week their three finalists for next police chief, hold public ‘meet and greet’

(PRINEVILLE, Ore)— The City of Prineville on Thursday invited community members to meet three candidates vying to become the city’s next chief of police next Wednesday, one day after their names are released.

An informal meet-and-greet with the three finalists will provide an opportunity for community members to meet the candidates, ask questions and submit feedback to city leaders.

The meet-and-greet will be held on Wednesday, June 5, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Ron’s Comfort Food Café, located at Meadow Lakes Golf Course. Refreshments will be provided.

Following the community event, on Thursday, June 6, the candidates will participate in meetings with three panels consisting of regional public safety professionals, community leaders and members of the Prineville Police Department.

Information about the candidates will be released on Tuesday, June 4, the city said.

Former Police Chief Larry Seymour and Captain Rob Gray resigned this spring under a negotiated settlement, six months after being placed on paid, non-disciplinary leave pending an investigation, the results of which were not released by the city. Lieutenant Shane Wilson has been acting as officer in charge on an interim basis.

In March, the City of Prineville enlisted the services of a third-party firm to conduct a nationwide search for its next police chief, with the aim of having the new chief appointed by the end of the summer.