BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – City officials gathered Monday evening for the city’s April 12, 2022 council meeting at which several issues were explored. Items on the evening’s agenda included not only the appointment of a new Deputy Chief of Police for the city, but of a new Chief of Police as well.
The personnel changes come on the heels of the retirement of former Beckley Police Chief Lonnie Christian last month. Captain Dean Bailey will be assuming the position of Beckley Chief of Police, while Chief of Detectives Lt. Dave Allard will take on the role of Deputy Chief of Police.
The proposal to move forward with the promotion of both officers was unanimously approved, with Beckley Mayor Rob Rappold – who spoke extensively at the meeting – praising the many accomplishments of both men.
In the case of new Police Chief Dean Bailey, these accomplishments include graduation from the FBI National Academy, membership with the Fraternal Order of Police, and graduation from Marshall University with a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice.
Lt. Dave Allard brings his valuable experience as a USAF Veteran with the 27th Fighter Squadron of the United States Air Force to the Deputy Chief of Police position. Lt. Allard is also a graduate of the FBI Academy, and boasts experience working directly with the FBI.
Mayor Rappold went on to commend the Beckley Police Department’s employment of more FBI Academy graduates than any other department program throughout the state, proclaiming “It’s an honor, obviously, to be invited to attend [the FBI Academy], and it’s more of an honor to successfully graduate.”
Several requirements must first be met for one to even be considered to the FBI Academy. These include having earned a four year degree from an accredited college or university, having amassed sufficient professional experience, and possession of a valid driver’s license with sufficient driving experience, among others.
More information on the BPD, as well as updates and the latest news, can be found on the Beckley Police Department website.
