A packed house at the auditorium in Desert Hot Springs High School witnessed the change in command ceremony between beloved Chief Patrick Williams, who is moving to Petaluma to become Chief there, and Chief Kate Singer, promoted from rank of commander.
Speeches and awards were given Chief Williams by the DHS PD Officers Association, Mission Springs Water District Board, Riverside County Supervisor John Benoit, State Assemblyman Manuel Perez and the office of State Senator Bill Emmerson.
Conducting the badge pinning and oath of office was mayor Yvonne Parks. Detective Ken Perry was appointed as interim commander to fill the vacancy created by Kate Singer moving to chief.
Speakers also included City Manger Rick Daniels, Mayor Yvonne Parks, and both Chief Williams and Chief Singer. The invocation and benediction were given by Pastor Bruce Montgomery and Rev. Paul Miller (police chaplain) respectively.
A reception followed, with a surprisingly great food selections, no ‘Hot-Dogs’ that day!
