BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KERO) \u2014 Bakersfield Police Chief Greg Terry is stepping down at the end of the month, after 30 years with the department, including six years as its top leader.<\/p>\n
Brent Stratton will take over the role as Terry transitions into retirement.<\/p>\n
“It’s time,” Terry said.<\/p>\n
Terry has spent 35 years in law enforcement, with the last 29 years serving the Bakersfield community. He took over as chief in 2020, succeeding Lyle Martin.<\/p>\n
“I’ve been so blessed to have the career that I’ve had,” Terry said.<\/p>\n
Looking back on his tenure, Terry said he views his time as chief as a stewardship role, navigating the department through the COVID-19 pandemic, the George Floyd protests, and a period of stabilization and growth.<\/p>\n
“I was really proud of the men and women of the department and how we managed that,” Terry said.<\/p>\n
He credited his officers for facilitating peaceful protests and allowing the community to express their anger and fear without the widespread devastation seen in other cities.<\/p>\n
In recent years, the department created a community engagement division focused on building trust and problem-solving. Terry noted that the ongoing Department of Justice stipulated judgment has also played a role in shaping the agency.<\/p>\n
“We’re a better department today because of that,” Terry said.<\/p>\n
He acknowledged the DOJ process is difficult and expensive, but necessary for improvement.<\/p>\n
Despite the focus on community relations, the department continues to handle 250,000 to 260,000 calls for service and make 11,000 to 12,000 arrests annually. Terry pointed to a recent shooting on Half Dome Way on Easter Sunday as a reminder of the ongoing challenges.<\/p>\n
“We are still laser focused on public safety and protecting this community,” Terry said.<\/p>\n
As he prepares to hand over leadership, Terry expressed confidence in Stratton.<\/p>\n
“He’s very intelligent. He’s a student. He approaches things to learn,” Terry said.<\/p>\n
Originally from Lafayette, Louisiana, Terry plans to remain in Bakersfield and find new ways to serve the community outside of law enforcement.<\/p>\n
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