Former Clark County Sheriff Garry Lucas is coming out of retirement to temporarily lead the Ridgefield Police Department.
Lucas, who retired as sheriff in 2014 after 24 years in charge, will be the interim police chief effective immediately, as current Chief Carrie Greene’s last day is Friday. Greene is retiring after working more than 30 years in law enforcement, including 25 at the Washington State Patrol.
“We have great people and structure already in place,” Ridgefield City Manager Steve Stuart said. “What we need is someone who can provide some guidance to our police department, and, importantly, provide some insights, insights into some of the projects we’re working on and insights into what we should be looking for in our next police chief.”
Stuart added that Lucas, who turns 73 this year, will not be in the running for the permanent position.
The first review of applicants to be the new chief will take place after May 20, Stuart said, and he hopes to have an offer out by the end of June with a new chief on board shortly after that.
Stuart said that Lucas does not have a determined role in the hiring process, but hopes the retired sheriff can help with the search.
“I have incredible respect for Garry, and I will absolutely be seeking his input and advice, and it will certainly carry weight with me,” Stuart said.
The decision to hire an interim chief was made by Stuart, who said Lucas was his top choice. The two discussed the position a few times before Lucas accepted.
Lucas was with the sheriff’s office for 47 years and has remained active in law enforcement since retiring, including an appointment to the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, which sets national standards for police agencies, according to a news release from Ridgefield. In the same release, Lucas said he is looking forward to the department continuing to provide “excellent public safety services to the citizens and businesses of the city of Ridgefield.”
Stuart said the process to find a new chief will be open and involve the community as well as the department.
“This is a very important position in our community,” he said. “Public safety is our top priority. It shows in who we’ve chosen in our interim police chief and it will show in who we choose as our next chief.”
