Sterling appoints new police chief

STERLING – The city's new police chief wants to build upon positive interactions the department has with community members.

Deputy Chief Alex Chavira was appointed to helm the department Monday and replaces former Chief Tim Morgan, who retired July 30.

“I am humbled and grateful by the opportunity to lead the fine men and women of the Sterling Police Department," Chavira said. "We have the best personnel that any administrator could ask for and I am confident in their commitment to serving the citizens of Sterling."

Chavira has served with the Sterling Police Department for 24 years in various capacities, including Youth Officer, Task Force Officer, Detective Sergeant and most recently as Deputy Chief of Operations.

"My primary goal is to continue to build on our relationship with the citizens through community policing efforts. I believe that positive police interactions with our citizens are mutually beneficial and necessary," Chavira said. "My predecessors have instilled in me the importance of community and that is something for which I am thankful."

City Manager Scott Shumard said Chavira was well prepared for the position by Morgan.

“Chief Chavira is an ideal successor to Chief Morgan and will continue the culture of integrity and accountability that Chief Morgan nurtured while continuing to adapt to the challenges of policing in the 21st century, with a keen eye on continuing to develop community policing efforts.” Shumard said.

Mayor Skip Lee said Chavira has strong Sterling roots and police values that will benefit the community.

"Like those before him, his varied and extensive service in law enforcement coupled with his dedication and 'community policing' philosophy will continue moving Sterling ahead," Lee said. "I am also pleased to have a police chief with his roots in Sterling and the Latinx community. I look forward to many years of his leadership.”