Centralia Hires New Chief of Police

The City of Centralia announced the hiring of a new police chief out of a pool of 15 applicants Monday. Harlan Hatton will begin work as the new Centralia chief of police December 13th. Hatton has 24 years of law enforcement experience, most recently as a Sergeant for the Columbia Missouri Police Department.

The appointment comes after former Police Chief Bob Bias stepped down in September. Three officers also resigned following Bias’ resignation. Mayor Chris Cox released a statement saying the city will also hire an additional full-time officer to bring the department closer to full staff.