Building on community relations, diversity in recruiting and establishment of a career development program for officers are goals Mark Mitchell will pursue as Canton’s new police chief.
Mitchell was sworn in Monday to lead the 47-officer-strong department. He’d been assistant chief for about 18 months, after spending more than 20 years with the Newton County Sheriff’s Office.
The Georgia native said his predecessor enhanced public trust through community events, social media and other initiatives, and he’ll continue that.
He said his priorities include leadership training and getting officers state-certified in such specialty areas as criminal and crash investigations as part of career development. He also plans efforts to recruit more female, African-American, Hispanic and Asian officer candidates, as well as those with military backgrounds.
Mitchell, 43, takes over from Chief Robert Merchant, who retired after leading the department since mid-2012.
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