News

Police Chief Randy Oaks Steps Aside

Thursday, September 17, 2009

Oaks receives a commemorative plaque from Deputy Chief Mike Kabbel

Randy Oaks, Prescott's Chief of Police, said his final, official farewells to city staff at the Antelope Hills Golf Course's Manzanita Grille, yesterday. Oaks made his retirement announcement in July.

"I think Randy did an excellent job in building a great department," says City Manager Steve Norwood, who hired Oaks in late 2005. "That department now has much improved equipment, more officers, and top rated talent from top to bottom."

In an effort to aid Deputy Chief Mike Kabbel with the transition, Norwood has asked Oaks to continue on until Jan. 15. A decision regarding filling his vacated position will be made after Norwood confers with Kabbel and Oaks about the future direction of the department.

"I know the Chief had some challenging issues," adds Norwood. "But, he always approached the job with the utmost of professionalism. He was a very hands-on type Chief, who wouldn't ask an officer to do anything he wouldn't do."

In a memo to the city's elected officials, Oaks said: "It has been a pleasure to come before you on a weekly basis, whether it was introducing new members of the PD team, sharing crime stats, or spending our tax dollars. Your support has allowed your Police Department to modernize, maintain adequate staffing, and obtain critical safety equipment. Thanks for supporting me, even though I know I left you scratching your head at times wondering if I was on the right track.

Lastly, thank you Steve Norwood for allowing me the latitude to make some very difficult moves within the Department as we charted the course for the future.

Because of the support and contributions of all of you collectively, our Police Department is well-equipped, well-trained, and staffed with some very sharp personnel. Our crime rate is at a 20+ year low and our citizenry is appreciative of our efforts to keep it that way.

Thanks for giving me this opportunity."