The City of Las Cruces is announcing the retirement of Police Chief Patrick Gallagher.
Chief Gallagher was selected in the fall of 2017 as the City’s Police Chief following a thorough process which involved input from community groups, representatives of the local police union, and senior level staff. He began working with the City in January of 2018. His retirement will become effective August 1, 2020.
Chief Gallagher served Las Cruces after already dedicating decades of law enforcement in other communities. Previously, Gallagher worked for the cities of Santa Fe and Truth or Consequences in New Mexico and also served 23 years with the New York Police Department.
"I would like to thank you for your service to the city for 2 1/2 years. I think you continued the great tradition of LCPD and I was very proud to work with you," said Mayor Ken Miyagishima. "You will be missed."
Chief Gallagher stated upon his hiring he had planned to hold the position for two to no more than three years. In an address to administrative staff earlier today, he noted that he felt this was a good time to afford the newly sought city manager to select a police chief of his or her choosing. He did add that his decision was a difficult one to make, but after consulting with family and considering recent events on a local and national level, he felt it was time to move on.
“Although we only worked together for a few months in my current capacity, I appreciated working with you and your assistance as well as that of LCPD in our collaborations starting years ago over traffic calming measures throughout the City”, said Interim City Manager David Maestas. “I wish you well.”
The City of Las Cruces is currently considering who will fill the void of the chief position in the interim until a new Chief is hired. Gallagher again, will remain on staff until August 1. Chief Gallagher did not indicate what his plans for the future are at this time.