GRPD announced on Thursday that they have filled the open position of Deputy Chief of Police by promotion from within.

Last week the department announced that current Deputy Chief of Police David Kiddle would be retiring after 28 years of service with the Grand Rapids Police Department. This week, Chief Payne announced they'd be promoting East Service Area Captain, Kristen Rogers to the role of Deputy Chief of Police, which also marks a historic moment for the police department.

As Chief Payne said in his announcement,

“This is a very exciting time for the Grand Rapids Police Department. Not only is Deputy Chief Rogers making history by being the first woman to hold the position, she is a talented and experienced leader who will serve Grand Rapids well in the years to come.”

A graduate of Michigan State University, Deputy Chief Rogers joined the Grand Rapids Police Department in 1996 and since then has held numerous positions from patrol officer to 16 years in the detective unit before being promoted to Seargent and put in charge of the Family Services Team.  She was then promoted to Lutienient where she eventually commanded the Detective Unit, before being promoted last year to Captain of the East Service Area.

She's also a very well decorated member of the GRPD as well as a mom to two teenage daughters.

Deputy Chief Rogers spoke of her promotion,

“I’m very humbled by this tremendous honor and opportunity. My goal will remain, as it always has throughout my career, to be the best public servant possible. I am extremely proud to be part of the dedicated men and women of the Grand Rapids Police Department, and their continued commitment to protect this community. I am eager to continue working closely with the residents of Grand Rapids, community leaders, elected officials, and the city government. I am confident that through partnership we can create a safer community.”

 

 

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