Kearney Chief of Police to Retire

In an Executive Session held Tuesday December 28, 2021, the Board of Aldermen unanimously approved Police Chief Tom Carey's retirement request to become effective January 10, 2022. The Board also approved a contract with Chief Carey to serve as law enforcement consultant during 2022, and made an internal promotion of Captain Tom O'Leary to be the next Chief of Police.

Kearney Police Chief Tom Carey (second from left on 1st row) will retire on January 10, 2022. Captain Tom O’Leary (second from left on 2nd row) will become the new Kearney Police Chief at that time

Mayor Randy Pogue stated, "The citizens of our wonderful City have been blessed to have Chief Carey lead our police department for almost 40 years - a position that typically lasts 5-7 years. Kearney continues to be one of the top 10 safest communities in the State, and this doesn't happen by accident. Chief has been a great leader and mentor, and the tenure of his officers are a true testament to his leadership. I'm grateful for his service and wish him well in this next chapter"

Mayor Pogue also stated, "The Board unanimously approved my recommendation to promote internally. Effective immediately upon Chief Carey's retirement, Tom O'Leary will become Kearney's new Chief of Police. Captain Tom O'Leary is a 28-year veteran of our police force. He has continued to rise the ranks in our department over the years, and has worked in Kearney his entire career. The Board desired our next leader possess skills necessary to prepare our Police Department keep pace with the growth of our community, while prioritizing community relations with our residents, business owners, and patrons. O'Leary is a proven leader with a great vision for our department."

In his retirement letter to the Board of Alderman, Chief Carey said, “I have served my entire tenure as Chief of Police under our City Administrator, Jim Eldridge and City Attorney, Brian Hall. I have seen the City and the Police Department grow under their guidance and leadership for all these years. I have an experienced staff of supervisors and officers who will accept all challenges and perform their duties to the fullest.”

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story