Embattled police chief in Somerton out
City council opts not to renew Jeffery Cavender’s contract
SOMERTON — This city will be looking for a police chief following a decision by the Somerton City Council not to renew the contract of the current chief.
Following a discussion behind closed doors, the council voted 5-2 in open session against the contract for Jeffery Cavender, who joined the city in May 2017 after having served as police chief in Momence, Ill.
The decision brought an end to a one-year tenure marked by controversy, among which was fallout over budgetary issues, including the police department’s recruitment of two police officers for whom funds for salaries and benefits had not been earmarked.
Cavender had also come under criticism from some residents for disciplinary actions taken against two longtime Somerton police officers who had deep roots in the community.
One of the officers, Capt. Michelle Magana, whom Cavender had placed on administrative leave, in turn filed a lawsuit against the city.
And in November, a group of residents in San Luis launched a recall against several council members, citing as one reason Cavender’s handling of Magana. The recall effort fell short after organizers failed to collect enough petition signatures by the deadline to force the incumbents to stand for reelection.
“For me, it was not a difficult decision,” said Councilman Miguel Villalpando, who made the motion not to renew Cavender’s contract. “For some time I have known he was not the right person for the community.”
The city needs a chief “who has more qualifications on the administrative side, who knows the budget,” he said, adding that Cavender “was lacking in that aspect.”
Joining with Villalpando in the vote were council members Martha Garcia and Luis Galindo, Vice Mayor Gerardo Anaya and Mayor Jose Yepez.
Council members Carlos Gonzalez and Jesus Roldan voted against the motion that had been seconded by Yepez.
Gonzalez said he believes Cavender’s tenure was productive.
“I based my decision on the change he brought to the department. There are more police officers and there is more training for them. There are more patrol cars and more vigilance (by police), and the people are happy about that.
“I am saddened by this decision, because since he arrived, more professionalism and a change of climate has been seen in the department.”
Gonzalez conceded that Cavender did not fulfill one of the terms of his contract, the requirement that he take up residency in Somerton within a year of his hiring. But Gonzalez said the council could have given him an extension to meet that condition.
Cavender, who attended Tuesday’s session, addressed the council after the vote, using the occasion to express his thanks for the opportunity to serve the city.
“I tried to do the best I could,” he said. “I recognize the dedication of all my staff to the city, and I wish them the best.”
Yepez said the department’s second-in-command, Capt. Joseph Turitto, will serve as acting chief while the city recruits candidates for the post.