BOISE, Idaho — Boise Mayor Lauren McLean has picked Chris Dennison to be Chief of Police for the Boise Police Department. Dates for confirmation from the city council and background check results will be announced in the following days.
"I'm pleased to announce that Chris Dennison has accepted my offer to be Boise's next Chief of Police and excited to introduce him to our community," said Mayor Lauren McLean. "Chris understands the special trust that must exist between a police department and the community it serves. I am confident he will care for our officers and our residents, working collaboratively across the region to keep Boise a safe and welcoming city for everyone."
Prior to this new position, Dennison was the assistant chief of police for the Tucson Police Department in Arizona. He served with the Tucson Police Department for 20 years, first joining the force in 2004. Dennison also oversaw the department’s Investigative Services Bureau, which includes the Central Investigations Division, Counter Narcotics Alliance and the Forensics Division.
McLean selected Dennison after a lengthy hiring process and open houses where the candidates took questions from police and community.
"The Boise Police Union Local 486 is thankful to Mayor McLean for the inclusive process in selecting Chris Dennison as the next Chief of the Boise Police Department. We appreciate all the candidates for their interest, as well as their openness to the Union's questions and input. The Union thanks Chief Dennison for accepting the position and we believe he is the appropriate choice for our Chief because of his attentiveness to his community and his officers," wrote Boise Police Union Local 486.
Dennison said he was looking forward to working in Boise.
"I'm honored to join the Boise Police Department as Chief of Police. I am passionate about building strong community relationships, enhancing public safety, and leading a dedicated team of police professionals. Boise is a vibrant and growing city, and I look forward to working collaboratively with the community to ensure it remains a safe and welcoming place for all residents," Dennison said.