City of Coos Bay release – On the evening of June 15, 2021, the City of Coos Bay hosted a Change of Command Ceremony honoring retiring Coos Bay Police Chief Gary McCullough as well as the promotion and appointment of incoming Chief Chris Chapanar. The audience included local Law Enforcement, Parole and Probation, U.S. Coast Guard, City Council, Coos Bay School District Superintendent, District Attorney’s Office staff, City staff, family, friends, and citizens. The Ceremony took place in front of City Hall under ideal weather conditions. The ceremony provided an opportunity to reflect on Chief Gary McCullough’s 26-year career in law enforcement. Chief McCullough rose through the ranks from Reserve Police Officer to Chief. Along the way, he served in many roles including Patrol Officer, Field Training Officer, Motorcycle Officer, Member of the Coos County Emergency Response Team, Survival Skills Instructor, Patrol Sergeant, Operations Captain, Administrative Captain and, of course, Chief of Police. Chief McCullough spoke to those in attendance, recognizing those who helped mentor him, the life-long friendships he made, and finally thanking his family for the support they provided him throughout the years. City Council President Phil Marler presented Chief McCullough with a shadow box as a retirement gift from the City of Coos Bay and Chief Mark Daniel (Mt. Angel P.D.) was on hand representing the Oregon Association Chief’s of Police to present Chief McCullough with a plaque for his dedicated service to that organization. City Manager Rodger Craddock, after speaking about the leadership ability, dedication, and solid ethics that both law enforcement professionals possess, then appointed Chief Chapanar as the new Chief of Police. Incoming Chief Chapanar’s career was also recognized. Chief Chapanar‘s 20-years in law enforcement began as a Reserve Deputy for the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, before he was hired by the Coos Bay Police Department. Chief Chapanar served in numerous roles during his tenure including Patrol Officer, Bicycle Officer, K-9 Officer, Watch Commander, Patrol Sergeant, Administrative Sergeant, Operations Captain, Administrative Captain, Deputy Chief, K-9 Program Supervisor, Emergency Response Team (ERT) Member and Squad Leader. Chief Chapanar also thanked his mentors, which included Chief McCullough, CBPD Chief Chuck Knight (ret), CBPD Chief Eura Washburn (ret), Capt. Cal Mitts (ret), and former Chief and current City Manager Rodger Craddock. Chief Chapanar recognized the support from his family and friends as well. Finally, Chief Chapanar spoke about how he would continue to demand that the core values and mission of the Coos Bay Police Department remain strong under his watch. We thank everyone who was able to attend a special night for the Chiefs’ and the Coos Bay Police Department.
