Danny Whiteley has announced his retirement after serving 22 years as Chief of the Poplar Bluff Police Department.
“First I want to thank City Manager, Dr. Tom Lawson who hired me, City Managers Doug Bagby, Mark Massingham, and Matt Winters who have allowed me to remain in my position as Chief, of such a great department,” said Whiteley.
“I owe my success to our now retired, and, all the current staff of men and women Law Enforcement Professionals of the Poplar Bluff Police Department, that I have had the honor to serve with as officers, co-workers, and friends,” he continued.
“Chief Whiteley has been a tenacious and dedicated lawman for Poplar Bluff for over two decades. I think he loved his job and wanted to help protect the town where he grew up. He was a good uniter and tried his best to bring the community together during challenging times”, stated Mayor Steve Davis.
Mayor Davis praises Whiteley saying that he came from a family that values public service and believes this was at the heart of what Whiteley wanted to do. He believes his intention was always to carry on good work and make the community a better and safer place.
During his time with the department Whiteley worked through many substantial issues such as COVID-19, severe ice storms and civil unrest.
“It has been an honor working with Chief Whiteley”, stated City Manager Matt Winters. “He has shown an unwavering commitment to our city and developed partnerships throughout the region to address challenging public safety concerns.”
“He didn’t confine himself to just local law enforcement efforts, but reached out to other local, state, and federal agencies to share his knowledge and work along side to make a positive difference for the whole region. I’ve known Chief Whiteley for several years, particularly the last few while serving on the city council and whenever there was a major event in the city, regardless of the time, he would let the city manager and council know what was happening. He didn’t just delegate”, said Mayor Davis.
Whiteleys retirement will become effective September 9, 2022.
“As far as the city, he actually brought our law enforcement into the 21st century. I hate to see him leave, but at the same time, hope he enjoys his retirement,” said Mayor Davis.