Fort Myers – On May 4, the city published the list of individuals who applied for the position of Police Chief. As of today, 170 candidates submitted applications for the role. Extensive due diligence has been conducted to evaluate the credentials and reputation of each applicant. At this time, the list has been narrowed to the five candidates who best meet the requirements for professional experience and hands-on knowledge desired for the position.

“This is a crucial role, and the city has been extremely thoughtful during this recruitment process,” said mayor Kevin Anderson. “We need a chief who is a crime fighter, focused on keeping this community safe; someone who realizes that our society and the state of policing is always changing, therefore they need to lead the department through the evolving demands of one of the fastest growing municipalities in the nation. I feel very confidence in the process we have followed, and I am even happier to see the caliber of talent we are selecting from.”

The following five candidates are being invited to in-person interviews.

External Applicants:

• Richard Bash: 33 years of experience and former Deputy Police Chief at the city of Columbus Police Department.

• Larry Boone: 33 years of experience and former Police Chief at the Norfolk Police Department.

• Gina Hawkins: 35 years of experience and former Police Chief at the city of Fayetteville Police Department.

Internal Applicants:

• Jason Fields: 23 years of experience and current Police Captain/Acting Police Major at the city of Fort Myers Police Department.

• Victor Medico: 23 years of experience and current Police Captain at the city of Fort Myers Police Department.

“We are confident that Fort Myers has a top-notch police force, which is why we have taken this task extremely seriously,” said city manager Marty Lawing. “While we had a great list of qualified candidates, we focused on highly skilled professionals whose experience will be instrumental in leading the department forward. Additionally, it’s important that the new chief is committed to engage deeply and often with the community that we all serve.”

Due to the importance of this role to our community, two public forums will take place to introduce the candidates to Fort Myers residents.

When: June 1

Time: from 4 to 5:30 p.m. and from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Location: Collaboratory, 2031 Jackson St., Fort Myers

This event is open to the public and all residents are encouraged to connect with the candidates in-person. Each finalist will have the opportunity to introduce themselves, as well as answer several questions. Each forum will be concluded with a brief meet & greet with the candidates.

Source: City of Fort Myers