By Joanna Putman
Police1
SALT LAKE CITY — The Salt Lake City Police Department announced a significant change in its command structure, eliminating the merit-based rank of captain in favor of new mayor-approved commander roles, according to the Salt Lake Tribune.
The department confirmed that the seven current captains will be considered for the new commander positions if they express interest, according to the report. Those not chosen or uninterested will lose their jobs and be offered a severance package, according to Police Communications Director Brent Weisberg.
The restructuring is part of the department’s initiative to implement modern policing practices, aiming for enhanced efficiency, accountability and innovation, according to the report. Weisberg noted that the new commander roles would come with significantly increased responsibilities in scope, communication and leadership.
Since the new position is appointed, the Salt Lake City mayor will review and approve all commander candidates, according to the report. Weisberg said in a statement to Police1 that Salt Lake City Police Chief Mike Brown is responsible for identifying and selecting the strongest candidates for the commander position. After completing the interview process, Brown will request the mayor to formally appoint his preferred candidates, as required by state statute.
Chris Burbank, a former Salt Lake City Police chief, expressed concerns about the new structure, particularly the mayor’s involvement in approving commanders, according to the report. He suggested this could lead to decisions driven by political considerations rather than policing best practices.
Chief Brown expressed gratitude to the current captains for their service. The department’s command structure prior to this change, from highest to lowest rank, included chief, deputy chief, captain, lieutenant, sergeant and officer, according to the report.