YPD Police Chief retires, capping 30 years on the force

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Yuma Police Department Chief Susan Smith has retired as of Tuesday, following a 30 year career.

Hired as a public safety dispatcher in 1992, Smith worked her way up to becoming the first female Chief in 2019.

During her time as chief, she dealt with challenges like COVID-19, spikes in immigration and asylum-related border crossings, reactions to the death of George Floyd, and more.

"Coming from dispatch and then moving all the way to Chief, and being our first female chief in the City of Yuma, are great accomplishments. It’s been great working with you. Thank you for keeping the community safe and for your dedication and work to the Yuma community," said Yuma Mayor Doug Nicholls.

“I have worked with Susan for over 30 years. Her commitment and concern for the citizens of the Yuma Community and the personnel of the Yuma Police Department was demonstrated every day,” noted Deputy Chief of Police Lisa Culp.

“She is a great friend, co-worker and a true leader. She will be missed. I congratulate her on a job well done and wish her all the best on her retirement," Culp added.

If you want to read more about Smith's career within YPD, then click here.