History was made Wednesday as Yuma city leaders announced the hiring of the first female police chief in the city’s history.
Deputy Police Chief Susan Smith has been promoted to take over following the retirement later this month of Chief John Lekan.
Smith has served in her current position since 2012 and has been with YPD since 1992. She has also served as a dispatcher, lieutenant and captain.
Smith was selected from three finalists.
“My priority is to continue to maintain the strong community relation that we have- the open communication to make sure that we maintain the trust the community has in the Yuma Police Department and the City of Yuma,” Smith said.
Lekan served with YPD for 33 years. His last day on the job is March 28.