California, Mo., hires new police chief after seven weeks | Mid-Missouri News [Video]

CALIFORNIA, Mo. — The city of California has hired a new police chief and detective sergeant after nearly two months without department leadership.

Scott John was sworn in as police chief and Dale Harp as the new detective sergeant on Tuesday. John and Harp were both officers from Maries County.

California has been without a police chief and police force for about seven weeks after former Chief Daniel Hurt resigned due to retention concerns and staffing shortages, the California mayor told KOMU 8 in August. John said he hopes the community can trust the police department.

“We’re hoping to bring back a quality of professionalism to the police department that’s well equipped and actively engaged in the community of California,” John said.

The Moniteau County Sheriff’s Office has been helping the city with law enforcement since September and is still providing assistance while the California Police Department rebuilds its police force.

The city of California …