It's official: Harrison has a new police chief

Harrison police Sgt. Brian Andrew Turack officially is the department’s new chief.

Turack was sworn in at Monday’s commissioners meeting.

He has been serving alongside retiring Chief Michael Klein since May, when commissioners appointed Turack to the chief’s post.

Klein has been the chief for the past 29 years. His last day is Friday.

Klein has been working part-time after his retirement in October to assist the department until commissioners hired his replacement. Commissioners appointed Turack as chief at their agenda meeting May 16. Turack was one of six Harrison officers who applied for the position.

Harrison has 12 officers, including Turack.

Turack, 35, was hired in November 2012. He was promoted to sergeant in 2014.

Turack’s first day as chief is Saturday.

“Everyone is talking about one chief retiring and another one replacing him,” Turack said. “What this really means to me is the passing of the torch.”

Turack commended Klein for his “fantastic” work in developing and implementing departmental policies and procedures throughout his tenure.

Turack set goals for the force, including the pursuit of Crisis Intervention Team certification to enhance the ability to handle mental health emergencies and behavioral issues. In addition, he aims to collaborate with local school districts, churches and businesses to establish comprehensive critical incident response plans.

Another priority on Turack’s agenda is to ensure the department receives “Stop the Bleed” training. This training equips officers with the skills to provide vital assistance during the critical initial moments of a bleeding emergency before additional help arrives.

“The days of showing up and being able to perform our job effectively from our initial training are coming to an end,” he said. “Our force must adapt to the ebb and flow of what your community expects.”