Danbury has eight candidates interested in the job of Police Chief.  There are five internal candidates and three from outside the Danbury Police Department.  Chief Al Baker's retirement was announced at the end of January.

There will be an assessment process in May for all of the candidates, they will be scored and then presented to Mayor Mark Boughton for interviews before the final selection.  Boughton says it's a rigorous process, but he feels there is definitely a new Chief among the eight applicants.  Boughton added that the process is moving at a good clip and a new Police Chief will be on the City Council's June agenda for ratification.

Chief Baker planned to leave June 10th, but has agreed to make himself available to help with the transition.  If an external candidate is selected, Boughton says he has asked Chief Baker to two week beyond mid-June.  If an internal candidate is selected, there will be very little in the way of transition.

The Chief is required to be or become a Danbury resident, living in the City for the duration of their term as Chief. 

The salary for the position is listed at $120,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience.  The job notice says that a strong candidate will possess the ability to effectively drive change, be  responsible for the Department's budget planning and regulate Department budgetary needs and have a strong background in labor relations and negotiations. 

The applicants must possess a Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university in the field of Criminal Justice, Public Administration, Criminology or a related discipline.  At least ten years of progressive, responsible experience in law enforcement with five-plus years in a Leadership/Management role are also desired. Strong preference will be given for a Master’s Degree.