Roberts named PR police chief

PRIEST RIVER — Donning a new blue uniform, Ray Roberts was sworn in as the new Priest River police chief at a reception on Thursday night. Roberts was chosen as the successful candidate from a field of 20 applicants. It was announced and approved by the Priest River City Council on May 15.

Roberts was sworn in by Mayor Jim Martin and Denise Roberts pinned the new shield on her husband. Martin stated it was the "most difficult decision I have had to make and it is very important for Priest River."

"I would like to thank our clerk and deputy clerk for this reception. They put it together in a short period of time. Special thanks to everyone for the support they have shown, and we will count on that as we continue to grow. I would like to thank the interview panel and the city council for their vision and development in this process," Martin said. "I really want to thank my wife Kerri Martin for putting up with me," he added.

"This all began when we contacted Ray for consulting help in the hiring process. He called to tell me he had to step down for that capacity because he was going to throw his hat in the ring for the position of police chief.

What set Ray apart was his philosophy on helping Priest River and the fact that he has already become so involved in the community. It actually seemed like he was interviewing me," Martin said.

"I think this is a great fit for the city," he added.

Roberts comes to Priest River with 30 years experience with the Tacoma Police Department where he finished his career with the title of assistant police chief.

The Priest River Police Department will be up and running by July 1, 2006. May 31 is the last day for applicants to file for the position of police sergeant and two police officers.

The four man office will be located next to City Hall.