Centralia Police Chief Greg Dodson has announced his retirement from the department effective Friday. City Manager W. Kory Smith has designated Lieutenant Steve Whritenour as the Acting Chief of Police until further notice.
Dodson leaves the department after more than 22 years of service. He served his entire career with the Centralia Police Department starting as a patrolman, and advancing to sergeant, lieutenant, and then becoming chief on November 12th, 2019.
In a press release from the city, Dodson is quoted as saying it has been an honor working for the City of Centralia. He says it has been a privilege to have worked with so many outstanding men and women in the department over the years. He is thanking them for their professionalism and dedication. Dodson added he has so much respect for the work each of them does each day to keep the city safe.
Dodson says he has dedicated his life to the service of the city. When he was initially interviewed 22 years ago for the position of a police officer he was asked, ‘why do I want to be a police officer?’. Dodson’s response was his primary goal was to help people. He feels he has accomplished that during his tenure with the department.
The city says Dodson’s dedication and commitment to the citizens of Centralia will be missed and the Mayor and City Council share in the thoughts of wishing him the best during his retirement from the Centralia Police Department.
Whritenour says moving forward the Centralia Police Department will hold the highest level of integrity and transparency during this transitional period. He feels truly blessed to have an experienced and knowledgeable command staff and professional officers that will continue the department’s mission.
Whritenour adds the entire police department offers best wishes to Dodson on his retirement and future endeavors and thanks him for more than 22 years of service.
Centralia Mayor Bryan Kuder says the city plans to advertise the police chief’s position and go through the interview process before naming a new Chief of Police.
