New Atascadero interim police chief is ‘incredible leader’ who served city for 9 years
A former Atascadero police chief is coming out of retirement to lead the Atascadero Police Department on an interim basis, according to a city news release Friday.
Jerel Haley was originally appointed as Atascadero police chief in October 2011 and retired in October 2020,
Haley will fill the position vacated by former Atascadero Police Chief Bob Masterson, who was dismissed Sept. 14 due to “incompatible management styles,” the city said then.
“We are delighted to have Chief Haley return to Atascadero and fill in as the Interim chief of police as he knows our community and our entire team here at the city,” Atascadero city manager Rachelle Rickard said in the release.
“It will give us time to recruit the right person,” Rickard said, “and his willingness to assist us speaks to the incredible leader he has been for our police department.”
Haley has served 29 years in law enforcement, the final nine years as Atascadero’s chief of police.
During his time as Atascadero police chief, Haley prioritized enhancing partnerships between the agency and community members, according to the release.
“We at the city are very blessed to have Chief Haley come out of retirement to give us his time, professionalism and ongoing leadership,” Atascadero Mayor Heather Moreno said in the release, praising Haley’s “ongoing commitment and dedication to our community.”
Haley is expected to start his stint as interim police chief in early October, as the city of Atascadero is continues its search for a new chief.
