Draper has hired its second police chief, a Californian who has spent more than two decades in law enforcement.
According to the city's website, Bryan Roberts served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1982-86, then launched his law enforcement career in Ventura, Calif., where he spent 17 years as a Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team member, and also oversaw patrol watch, special operations and professional standards.
In 2006, Roberts took the reins of the Citrus Heights Police Department, then became chief of the Menlo Park Police Department in 2010, where he enacted organizational changes that trimmed costs by about $700,000 per year.
"I'm eager to serve the Draper community and work with all stakeholders to enhance the exceptional quality of life that Draper has to offer," Roberts said in a prepared statement.
Roberts has a masters degree in Public Administration from California State University Northridge, and also completed a Masters of Security Studies from the Naval Postgraduate School Center for Homeland Defense and Security.
Roberts replaces Arthur "Mac" Connole, who hired on as the city's first police chief in April 2003, was named Utah's Outstanding Police Chief of the Year in 2010, and retired in March after 44 years in law enforcement.
Draper Mayor Darrell Smith said Friday that the city cast a wide net in seeking candidates to fill the job.
"We had 53 applicants, several from out of state," Smith said. "When it came down to it, Mr. Roberts seemed to be the right fit."
Roberts begins leading Draper's force of 36 sworn officers and 14 full- and part-time staff members on Aug. 6.
"We are looking forward to working with the new chief," said Draper Police Sgt. Chad Carpenter, "and are excited to move forward under his direction."
twitter: @catmck
