Arlington announces national search for police chief, appoints two interim chiefs

The city of Arlington announced Wednesday a national search for its next police chief, according to a city of Arlington press release.

The position was left vacant when former chief Will Johnson, 47, announced his retirement on April 27. He was a 23-year veteran of the Arlington Police Department and served as police chief since 2013. Under Johnson, the Arlington Police Department was awarded first place for its National Night Out Campaign in 2018.

The city’s two assistant police chiefs Jaime Ayala and Kevin Kolbye will lead the department on an interim, rotating basis.

Ayala will be interim chief from May 28 to July 31, and Kolbye will be interim chief from Aug. 1 to Sept. 30. Ayala is a 31-year veteran who was awarded the State of Texas Medal of Valor, and Kolbye is a 37-year law enforcement veteran who joined Arlington in 2015 from the FBI.

“Chiefs Ayala and Kolbye are experienced and knowledgeable leaders ⁠— both with a strong background in all areas of police operations⁠ — and will serve our community well,” city manager Trey Yelverton said.

The city expects to fill the position by September.

A community event to recognize Johnson’s service is planned for June with details to be made available at a future date.