By Lucky Kidd
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Veteran Hutchinson Police officer Brice Burlie is the new Chief of Police. Burlie, a 24 year member of the department and most recently operations captain, was introduced during Tuesday’s Hutchinson City Council meeting.
Interim City Manager Mary Grace Clements, who made the appointment, said the process of hiring a new chief took longer than expected, but also said, “He is going to do an amazing job. He’s been committed to this community in 24 years of putting that uniform on, and we’re really excited to see the department positive moves and thrive.”
In addressing the Council, Burlie said, “I’m going to do everything in my power to try to make it the best agency that we can, with the thought in mind we’re here to serve the citizens of Hutchinson, and that’s who we answer to.”
Burlie has been serving as interim chief since June, and is the permanent replacement for Jeffrey Hooper who was terminated by the then City Manager Kendal Francis in March. He holds bachelors degrees in criminology and sociology from Kansas State University, plus additional training beyond that, and has attended the FBI National Academy.
