Oklahoma City Police Chief announces retirement

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) - Oklahoma City Police Chief Wade Gourley announced his retirement on Friday after 34 years of service.

According to the City of Oklahoma City, Gourley is serving as OKC's 50th Chief of Police and oversees 1,235 officer positions and 413 non-sworn employees.

“I can’t thank Chief Gourley enough for his more than three decades of leadership and service to the residents of Oklahoma City,” City Manager Craig Freeman said. “During his tenure as Chief, he guided the Police Department through a time of significant uncertainty and change. Through it all he has embodied the values of the Oklahoma City Police Department by leading with integrity and a commitment to serve all Oklahoma City residents.”

Officials say Gourley joined the Oklahoma City Police in 1989. He earned the title of Deputy Chief in 2017 and was later promoted to Chief of Police in July of 2019.

“Working alongside the dedicated men and women of this Police Department and serving this great community for over 34 years has been an incredible honor,” Gourley said. “After my departure, I know the Police Department will continue to honor our core values by serving this City with integrity, compassion, accountability, respect and equity.”

While serving as Chief, Gourley has altered the way OKCPD responds to mental health related calls, broadened scenario-based training programs, improved the department's use of technology, encouraged transparency through body cameras, began using the Real Time Information Center, completely rebuilt the employee Wellness program and enhanced crisis intervention training, according to the city.

“We will conduct an extensive nationwide search for a new police chief with leadership experience in modern policing and a passion for serving our community,” Freeman said. “I’m confident we will attract highly qualified candidates from inside and outside the organization. Choosing a Police Chief is one of the most important decisions I make as City Manager.”

Gourley has agreed to stay employed with the city until his position is filled.