Gregory L. Garner Appointed Selma Police Chief
SELMA – Gregory L. Garner was announced as the new police chief for the City of Selma this morning.
Garner comes to the City of Selma after a 34-year law enforcement career with the Fresno Police Department. He presently holds the rank of captain as the “South Bureau Commander” over two policing districts, which compose most of the City of Fresno from Shields Ave. to its southern city limits. He is responsible for approximately 250 sworn and non-sworn personnel.
Selma City Manager D-B Heusser said that Garner’s appointment comes after a statewide recruitment.
“We are most fortunate to find someone with Greg’s abilities and skills right outside our door,” Heusser said.
Heusser added that out of the approximately 20 final applications, Garner’s stood out from the other candidates. Heusser praised his leadership and problem-solving skills, his ability to work with diversity, and the fact that citizens, community leaders and faith-based individuals all have praised his work and have outstanding things to say about him.
“I have met with Greg, and feel that he will provide our department and the community the strong influence and direction which it needs now and for the future,” said Selma Mayor Ken Grey.
Garner said that, though he still had plenty of challenges with the Fresno Police Department he had applied for Selma’s chief position looking for a new challenge.
Garner becomes the City of Selma 12th full-time police chief and takes command of a department of 45 sworn and non-sworn personnel with an operational budget of $5.1 million. Since Thomas H. Whiteside retired in July of 2009 the city has been served by Myron Dyck as interim chief.
Heusser said that it is anticipated that Garner will start his new job on July 1. The swearing-in and badge pinning is expected to take place that day at 5 p.m. in the Selma City Council Chamber.
