City of Brookings hires next police chief

The City of Brookings announced they have hired a new police chief.

Michael Drake will start on Aug. 22 as Brookings police chief, pending all final background checks, according to the release.

Drake currently lives in Gardiner, New York, and has been with the New York State Police for the past 26 years and most recently as a major.

“I am extremely humbled to have been selected as the next police chief for the City of Brookings," Drake said in the release, "It will be my honor to join such brave women and men of the police department and be part of an extraordinary group of dedicated city employees."

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Drake said he and his family are thrilled to be moving into a friendly community and are looking forward to meeting and working with their new neighbors, according to the release.

The City of Brookings hired Meliora to conduct the critical search with involvement from the public.

City Manager Paul Briseno said he was thankful for everyone who participated in the process and made their voices heard.

"We are thoroughly excited for Michael and his family to join the community. He will lead a department of employees who are dedicated to Brookings,” Briseno said.

The first few months of Drake’s employment will be focused on establishing relationships and understanding the organization and community. His phone information is forthcoming, and his office location will be in the City of Brookings’ Police Department, according to the release.

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This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: City of Brookings names Michael Drake as new police chief