The Denver Police Department has made some key promotions, including one involving a black commander who African-American community leaders thought should have gotten a promotion last year.
District 3 Cmdr. Tracie Keesee will become division chief of research, training and technology.
When she was not selected for a division chief position in February 2007, her African-American counterparts expressed concern. She also has been talked up by some officers as a likely candidate to some day become police chief.
Also promoted was John Lamb, the commander of internal affairs. He is becoming deputy chief of administration.
The promotions also include Capt. John Burbach, who becomes the commander of internal affairs; Capt. Kristen Kroncke, who is promoted to commander of District 3; Lt. Joseph Montoya Jr., who will be promoted to captain of crimes against persons; Lt. Harold Chatman, who will become captain of vice and narcotics; Sgt. Barry Gallawa, who will become a lieutenant at District 2; Sgt. Matthew Murray, who will be promoted to lieutenant at District 2; Sgt. David Shear, who will be promoted to lieutenant at District 5; Sgt. Ernest Martinez, who will be promoted to lieutenant in the office of the deputy chief of administration; Cpl. George Vog ler Jr. will be promoted to sergeant at District 1; Cpl. Gary Ayers, who will be promoted to sergeant at District 6; Cpl. Brad Qualley, who will be promoted to sergeant at District 4; and Technician Brian Kimberly, who will become a sergeant at District 3.
