Michael Crankshaw takes oath of office as new Imperial Interim Police Chief
IMPERIAL – Imperial City Council noted to approve the agreement between the City of Imperial and retired Chief Michael Crankshaw to serve as Interim Chief of Police of the Imperial Police Department during their regular meeting on Wednesday, March 1.
With four votes from City Mayor Katie Burnworth and council members Ida Obeso-Martinez, James Tucker, and Stacy Mendoza, the motion passed to approve Crankshaw as Interim Police Chief while the city completes extensive recruitment for a more permanent hire for the position.
Upon the announcement of Chief Leonard J. Barra’s retirement, the City of Imperial entered into contract negotiations with Interim Candidate Michael Crankshaw, according to the Imperial City Council agenda item.
Councilwoman Stacy Mendoza said she used to work with City of Imperial Interim Police Chief Crankshaw while she was at the dispatch center in El Centro’s Police Department.
“Welcome Chief, it’s an honor to have you here,” Mendoza said.
Burnworth said she is excited to have Crankshaw as the Police Interim Chief. She remembered knowing him since she was a girl playing with Crankshaw’s daughters.
“It’s amazing how life comes back full circle,” Burnworth said.
“I am really looking forward to, and there is nobody else that I would rather have lead for Interim Police Chief at this time, so I look forward to all that you bring to the department,” the mayor said.
After the city council’s vote and remarks, city clerk Kristina Shields conducted the oath of office for Interim Chief Crankshaw. Crankshaw recited the oath of office and he received his badge, with applause from attending community members.
“I would like to thank everyone here and the council for the support and confidence in selecting me,” Crankshaw said. “I am looking forward to the challenge of serving this community, and I believe we can work collectively together for the betterment of the community. It will be a nice ride.”
Crankshaw thanked his family and officers attending the meeting.
Crankshaw came to the Imperial Valley about 36 years ago with the initial thought of staying only a couple of years, he said. More than three decades later Crankshaw considers the Imperial Valley home.
“This is home, so thank you again for the opportunity,” Crankshaw said. “I look forward to serving this community,” he said.