Provo names new Police Chief.

John King, a 30-year veteran of law enforcement, has been selected as Provo’s new police chief by Mayor John Curtis. The announcement was made early Wednesday.

King succeeds Rick Gregory, who left the position in July to relocate to Ohio. Capt. Cliff Argyle has served since July as interim chief.

An extensive four-month search for a new chief began immediately.

King was selected from a pool of more than 60 applicants who were screened by Citygate Associates, a California firm. They were also interviewed by a seven-member citizen panel and had several meetings with Curtis.

“I’ve been impressed with Chief King and his ability to connect with people,” Curtis said. “This talent was evident in the interview process.”

Curtis said during the process, King’s name continue to rise to the top of the list.

“I couldn’t be more pleased that we have an applicant all parties know was the best,” Curtis said.

King comes from the east coast and for the past two years served as director of a police academy in Hagerstown, Maryland. His responsibilities included teaching the important principles of community-based policing and mentoring future law enforcement leaders. This has been a focus for Curtis during his administration.

Before his work at the academy, King was the chief of police in Gaithersburg, Maryland.

It is anticipated King will formally join the department in December.

View the source article at www.heraldextra.com here: Provo names new Police Chief