Mesquite Police Chief Is Retiring

Follow CBSDFW.COM: Facebook | Twitter

MESQUITE (CBSDFW.COM) - Mesquite Police Chief Derek Rohde announced his plans to retire January 31.

"This is a decision which I have been considering for some time," said Chief Rhode.  "I wanted to remain in place until the transition of the new City Manager was completed. It has been a privilege to serve the citizens of Mesquite for more than three decades. Equally, I am humbled to have worked alongside so many honorable men and women during my career."

Chief Rohde began his law enforcement career with the City of Mesquite in 1983. He was promoted to Assistant Chief in 2005 and named Police Chief in 2008. During his tenure, the department has expanded many programs including the Citizen Police Academy and Problem Oriented Policing. One of the new initiatives launched under the direction of Chief Rohde was the department's internal police officer academy which places Mesquite as one of only about four percent of the law enforcement agencies in Texas with a similar program. Mesquite's academy has graduated 23 officers since it began in 2013.

Mayor Stan Pickett said, "On behalf of the entire City Council, I want to thank Derek for his selfless service. Our town is a safe community today because of his efforts. He has lead a department that has ushered in many programs which have created an environment for continued success in public safety here in Mesquite."

In addition to being a member of many professional law enforcement associations, Chief Rohde has been active in the Mesquite community. He has volunteered his personal time through the Mesquite Rotary Club and Mesquite Youth Service Advisory Committee.

Chief Rohde earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Amberton University and a Master Peace Officer certification from the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement. He is also a graduate of the Bill Blackwood Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas Leadership Command College.

City Manager Cliff Keheley indicated that a national search will begin immediately to find a permanent replacement.

(©2015 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)