She will be sworn in as Chief in a public ceremony on June 26. The Council’s approval marks the final step in replacing former Chief James Brandon following his recent promotion to Assistant City Manager. Chief Casey’s appointment is effective immediately.

“Chief Casey brings extensive experience and a proven track record of excellence to this role,” stated City Manager Alison Ortowski. “The respect she has cultivated amongst the team and community makes her exceptionally well-suited to lead the Police Department to new heights and navigate future challenges,” she added.

Here are just a few highlights of Chief Casey’s career:

• Extensive Experience and Proven Leadership: Chief Casey has 27 years of progressively responsible law enforcement experience, including 23 years with the Southlake Police Department. She has served as Assistant Chief since 2015, where her strategic vision and leadership have been instrumental in guiding the department towards continuous improvement and success.
• Educational and Professional Credentials: Chief Casey’s educational background includes an M.A. in Criminology and Criminal Justice and a B.A.A.S. in Criminal Justice. Her professional development includes a Master Peace Officer Certification and completion programs such as the Police Executive Research Forum’s Senior Management Institute for Police, the FBI National Academy, and the School of Executive Leadership at the Institute for Law Enforcement Administration.
• Strategic and Financial Acumen: Since 2015, Chief Casey has been charged with developing and implementing the department’s strategic vision. She also manages an $11.5 million budget, ensuring it is strategically aligned with departmental goals. Her oversight of police technology projects has kept the department at the forefront of innovation and operational efficiency.
• Commitment to Performance Excellence and Accreditation: Under Chief Casey’s leadership, the department has achieved the highest levels of performance excellence. Her thoughtful management has been crucial in maintaining its status as a premier law enforcement agency, recognized by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies with the Gold Standard accreditation.
• Focus on a Strong Team and a Strong Community: Chief Casey has fostered a culture of strong employee engagement. Her emphasis on employee well-being and professional development helps ensure a motivated and committed workforce. Her ability to build strong community relations has also been pivotal in enhancing public trust and cooperation, particularly through public engagement and school safety program enhancements. Her leadership reflects a keen understanding of the community’s top safety and security priorities.

“There is no one better for this position,” said Assistant City Manager James Brandon. “I am confident in her leadership skills and ability to lead the department and partner with the community. We are fortunate that she has chosen Southlake for her law enforcement career,” he stated.

The community is invited to Chief Casey’s public swearing-in ceremony on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, at Southlake’s DPS Headquarters, 600 State Street. The ceremony will take place at 3:00 p.m. A reception will immediately follow.