Christella Rodriguez will be sworn in as Bay City’s new Police Chief during the city council meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 6.
A Bay City Sentinel call to City manager Shawna Burkhart for more information about council’s decision and the finalists for the job was not returned, while she confirmed another media’s questions about council’s decision last week.
“I am grateful to be named Bay City’s Chief of Police,” said Rodriguez in an email.
“I am ready to lead the police department and continue to make a difference in our community.”
Rodriguez has served the community and Bay City Police Department for 35 years.
Her law enforcement background includes administrative roles as a Police Sergeant, Law Enforcement Lieutenant, Support Services Lieutenant, Police Captain, and recently - Interim Chief of Police.
“I am committed to providing service excellence, protecting the citizens of Bay City, and ensuring a professional workplace where our police officers can feel empowered to grow professionally,” she added.
“I am confident that my leadership abilities, knowledge of departmental processes and employees, and experience with the community, will prove to benefit the continued success and professional growth of the Bay City Police Department.
“As a goal-driven individual, I desired to continue my progression and training with TCOLE law enforcement classes along with volunteering in community organizations and events.”
Rodriguez commented that law enforcement is a “challenging career.”
“I have been a part of a local movement that encourages females to actively pursue a professional career in law enforcement,” she explained.
“The national average of women in uniform per police department is less than 12%. I am proud of the fact that the uniformed female officers for Bay City Police Department are at 37% - twice the national average.”
Rodriguez also:
- Commanded the Special Weapons and Response Team (SWAT). She was the first female SWAT in Texas.
- Implemented a new recruit program
- Developed the BCPD evaluation program
- Planned, scheduled and supervised, as lieutenant, the five police shift sergeants and their troops.
- Investigated allegations of employee misconduct.
- Received law enforcement recognition for bravery, merit awards, safe driving awards, unit citations, outstanding supervisor and lifesaving.
- Named to Bay City Chamber of Commerce “Women of the Year”