Brighton has a new chief of police after the City Council voted Tuesday night to appoint Paul Southard to head of the department after the retirement of its former chief.
“Southard brings more than 28 years of law enforcement experience to this position. He has proven leadership abilities, a tactical management style and commitment to the safety of our residents,” City Manager Manuel Esquibel said in a statement. “He has earned the respect from the department and we are excited for him to lead its activities moving forward.”
In his tenure with the Brighton Police Department, Southard has served as a police captain, lieutenant, sergeant, detective and patrol officer and most recently deputy chief of police. His first official day as chief is July 16.
Southard earned his bachelor’s degree in applied management from the National American University and a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Colorado State University. He is also a graduate of the Northwestern School of Police Staff and Command.
Former Brighton Police Chief Clint Blackhurst announced his plans for retirement in May after 46 years in law enforcement and 21 years on the Brighton police force. He became Brighton’s police chief in 1995.