Two Centralia Police officers were promoted during a swearing-in ceremony Monday night at Centralia City Hall.
Administrative Sergeant Steve Whritenour was promoted to one of the department’s two lieutenants, while Patrolman Ryan Bundy was promoted to fill Whritenour’s sergeant position.
Dodson praised both officers, noting he first started working with Whritenour at the Central City Police Department in 1996.
“He’s been a fantastic officer. Really kind of an anchor for the department and just an indispensable person for me to do my job. I wouldn’t have gotten through the last 2 years without Steve helping.”
Police Chief Greg Dodson congratulates Steve Whritenour on his promotion to Lieutenant. Photo Credit: Pat Hodges.
Whritenour joined the department in 2004, was Officer of the Year in 2006, was named a field training officer in 2007, and has trained 14 officers, advanced to Patrol Sergeant in 2017, and then Administrative Sergeant in 2018.
“I always wanted to be a Centralia Police Officer. It took me an interesting road to finally get there but January 2004 I finally got there. I have worked with some great officers over the years and lucky to have the experience.”
Dodson called Bundy the anchor of the midnight shift who has always done solid work. Bundy admitted public speaking wasn’t for him after taking the oath of office from City Clerk Kim Enke.
“Thanks everybody and have a good night.”
Centralia Police Chief Greg Dodson congratulates newly promoted Sergeant Ryan Bundy. Photo Credit: Pat Hodges.
Bundy joined the department in July 2014 and is also a field training officer who has trained four new officers. He has also been on and off acting sergeant as needed.
The promotions follow the recent retirement of Lieutenant Todd Hempen.
