CALIFORNIA - Michael Ward has been hired as the new police chief of California.
At 11:30 a.m. Monday, Aug. 5, California Mayor Norris Gerhart announced the selection at 11:30 a.m. Monday, after calling in all officers on and off duty for the announcement.
Ward is currently employed by the Moniteau County Sheriff's Department and has several years of prior experience in law enforcement.
The selection was made from a total of 17 applicants. Ward was one of four who were selected for interviews.
The Board of Aldermen approved Ward for the position at a special meeting Wednesday, with the information made public Monday morning.
Longtime Police Chief Fred Kirchoff announced his retirement several months ago.