Danville City Manager City Manager Ken Larking announced today the promotion of Christopher (Chris) K. Wiles from interim chief of police to the position of chief of police. Wiles served as interim police chief for nearly two months and, prior to that, as deputy police chief since last December.
He is a 30-year veteran of the Danville Police Department, having joined the department on Sept. 1, 1993.
“The hiring process was extremely competitive, as we had several well-qualified applicants,” Larking said. “However, it was apparent that Chris was the best fit for our community.”
Larking added, “I am pleased that we have strong leadership from the police department, so we had the luxury of promoting from within for this very important position. The department has made great strides, and Chris’ experience and knowledge of the system will allow us to continue the great progress.”
Wiles was chosen from a field of 48 candidates through a national recruitment. Developmental Associates LLC in Chapel Hill, N.C., was hired to coordinate the search. A 13-member assessment panel vetted finalists in skill-assessment exercises, including a presentation, a written exercise, a simulated community meeting and a coaching role-play. The panel included police chiefs from three states.