THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE SEARCH FOR A NEW POLICE CHIEF

(May 16, 2024)

MIDLAND, TEXAS -- The Midland Police Department will hire an interim police chief and then a new full-time police chief as Seth Herman accepted the same position with the Lubbock Police Department.  

Interim position 

• There have been four applicants as of May 16.  
• Interviews for the interim position will begin Friday. Seth Herman’s last day will be May 21, 2024.  
• City Management has had communication with the police officers’ association, and all three deputy chiefs, as well as others before the interim person is selected.  

 Full-time position 

• An Executive Recruitment firm will be hired to perform a nationwide search. (As we have in the past for this level of position)  
• Community/law enforcement officials will be asked for their input by way of Community Town Halls and Surveys 
• The hiring will coincide with an effort to hire more Community Service Officers (CSO’s) and increase the force of the Citizens on Patrol (COPS) Volunteer Program to increase our presence while allowing MPD officers to do true police work. 

 Notable 

• City management reports that the number of vacancies in the police department is down from around 40 and is projected to be as low as 17 vacancies by the end of the year.  
• Traffic enforcement, including speeding, reckless driving, and heavy trucks through city streets, will be a priority during the interim period.