Dodson named new CPD Chief

CENTRALIA — City Manager Dan Ramey has announced that Lt. Greg Dodson has been appointed Centralia’s new Chief of Police. Lt. Dodson had assumed the role as Lt. Command Officer since October 18, 2019 when Chief Brian Atchison retired.

Chief Dodson, 53 years of age, has 26 years of law enforcement experience where 21 years have been with the City of Centralia. Prior to his appointment as Police Chief, Lt. Dodson served in the positions of patrolman, sergeant, and lieutenant, where he has been Commander of Administration. Chief Dodson has extensive experience managing every division of operation aspects of the Centralia Police Department.

Chief Dodson has pledged to continue being thorough and aggressive on investigating crimes within the City. He has a degree in Criminal Justice as well as a Master’s in Business Administration.

Chief Dodson will be sworn in as Chief of Police this Tuesday, November 12th at 6:00 p.m. at the City Council meeting.

Due to this appointment, City Manager Ramey has instructed Chief Dodson to authorize the Police Commission to hire an additional police officer as soon as possible. Coupled with the City’s current 22 sworn officers, which includes 3 officers that are graduating from the Police Academy this Friday, the Police Department is currently doing background checks before hiring the 23rd officer.

With the above approval given to Chief Dodson, the Fire and Police Commission will hire the 24th officer which will get the Police Department at full capacity with 24 officers which the Council has budgeted for and allowed every year since 2011. With the appoint of Lt. Dodson to Chief of Police City Manager Ramey is requesting one appointment to Lieutenant and one appointment to Sergeant.

Please contact the Office of the City Manager with any questions at (618) 533-7622.