Search Begun For Interim Police Chief, Wiles Plans Resignation

EL PASO — El Paso Police Chief Richard Wiles announce he plans to hand in his resignation this week, clearing the way for City Council to name an interim chief.

It has also set the stage for Wiles to seek elected office, namely the position of sheriff of El Paso County.

As for is interim replacement, there are six candidates who have been interviewed by city manager Joyce Wilson. Under the current government for the city, it is she who will make the decision on who will temporarily replace Wiles until the position is permanently filled.

The candidates are:

Chief of Staff Diana Kirk, a 22-year veteran of the force Assistant Chief Paul Cross, who has also spent 22 years with the police department Deputy Chief Greg Allen, who has 26 years experience. Deputy Chief Eric Shelton, another 26-year veteran. Deputy Chief Kenith Adcox, a 20-year veteran Deputy Chief Tom Whitten, a 17-year veteran

Wiles, who has 25 years with the police department, is expected to announce his candidacy for sheriff after his resignation is accepted.

“What we’ve done in anticipation of his retirement is we’ve started the formal recruitment process. So we’ve actually posted a vacancy for the new Chief of Police for the City of El Paso and are soliciting resumes from interested candidates,” Wilson said.

City Council representatives have expressed some concern, with some saying they wished they could be more involved in the interim chief’s selection process.

At least one has gone on recordas to whom he’d want, at least on a temporary basis.

“WhoI would like to see is Paul Cross,”said city Rep. Steve Ortega.”He has been the number two guy at the police department, very well known in the community, very well respected.”