Sioux Falls Police Chief Barthel Announces Retirement, Reveals New Assignment
Citing new challenges and encouraging a fresh set of eyes, Doug Barthel announced his eventual retirement as Sioux Falls Police Chief. His last day will be October 16.
Besides, twelve and a half years is a long time to be Police Chief in Sioux Falls. Only one other chief served longer and that was W. H. Martin who was in the position during the late 1890’s into the early 1900’s according to Mayor Mike Huether.
Barthel’s career in Sioux Falls Law Enforcement spans almost 30 years. He started at the level of Patrol and Traffic Officer and has held nine different positions within the department until appointed to the Police Chief by Mayor Dave Munson in 2003.
Expansion of staff and different innovations took place since Barthel took office. One of the most visible upgrades would be the establishment of the Police Information Officer position which improved communication between the department and the media.
After ending his relationship with Sioux Falls Police, the 52 year-old Barthel will become the Director of Community Relations/Public Policy for Sanford Health. Barthel says it will be very similar to what he is currently doing. “(I’ll be) continuing to build relationships with leaders in the community. (I’ll work with) businesses, citizens, and elected officials (in my new role).”
Mayor Huether says the process to find a new Police Chief will begin soon. “We’ll immediately start the process to find a replacement for the Chief.” Huether says the hire could come from within the ranks. “There is certainly a capable replacement for the Chief within our Police Department.”
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