By Police1 Staff
FULLERTON, Calif. — A 28-year veteran of the Fullerton Police Department has been named its new acting chief.
Dan Hughes grew up in Fullerton and is currently head of the patrol division, according to the Los Angeles Times. Hughes will replace Capt. Kevin Hamilton, who was named acting chief in August when Chief Michael Sellers was placed on extended medical leave.
That first change occurred a few weeks after the controversial death of homeless man Kelly Thomas, which brought criminal charges for two of the six officers involved and extensive media scrutiny of Fullerton PD as a whole. Hamilton, who plans to retire soon, will resume his duties as captain following Hughes’ appointment, a press release stated.
The release details Hughes’ plans for improving a department that he says he is proud of:
Hughes said he is looking forward to his new role, adding he takes great pride in the department. “I firmly believe the men and women of the Fullerton Police Department are some of the best law enforcement officers in Southern California,” he added.
Hughes said his initial steps as acting chief will be to continue “working on improving community trust and confidence in their Police Department.” One idea to this end that he wishes to explore is the possible formation of a community advisory committee to the chief of police.
He added he will also be working closely with his staff on completion of a review and update of department policies, procedures, and practices “to ensure our officers are making the proper ethical decisions and performing effectively, and that our supervisors are engaging more with our officers and the community in the field.”
The department recently made changes to its complaint policy, according to the San Jose Mercury News. Now, a police supervisor who receives a complaint must forward it to the division commander, watch commander and the internal affairs bureau. Previously the supervisor could decide whether or not to address a complaint.
Additionally, officers have undergone or will undergo training in dealing with the mentally ill and the homeless, police said.
Hughes’ appointment is effective January 3.