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City manager picks Stockton police deputy chief over Sparks police chief for next Reno police chief

Kathryn Nance spoke with community members at the City of Reno’s meet and greet for the Reno police chief finalists at the Neil Road Recreation Center in Reno, Nev., on Dec. 15, 2022.
Lucia Starbuck

Reno’s City Manager has nominated the next chief of police.

Kathryn Nance, deputy chief of the Stockton Police Department, was picked to lead the Reno Police Department (RPD). It has a similar-sized staff to RPD. She’s been with the department since 1996. Nance was chosen over Sparks Police Chief Chris Crawforth.

During a public meet and greet in December, Nance outlined her goals, which include reducing crime and blight, and recruiting people to the department and the city.

“The goal is going to be coming to Reno, and figure out what is happening here,” Nance said. “Why is the crime happening? Who’s driving the violence? Who’s driving the crime? What communities is this impacting? And how do we make meaningful change to ensure that these communities feel safe?”

City manager Doug Thornley will recommend Nance at the next Reno City Council meeting on January 11. If appointed, she’ll be sworn in during the meeting and become Reno’s first female police chief.

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Lucia Starbuck is an award-winning political journalist and the host of KUNR’s monthly show Purple Politics Nevada. She is passionate about reporting during election season, attending community events, and talking to people about the issues that matter most to them.