Susanville has a new Chief of Police, and his name is Tom Downing.
The Susanville City Council, at its meeting last night, appointed Captain Tom Downing to the position of Police Chief for the City of Susanville.
“Last night, the City Council selected me as their next Chief of Police,” said Downing, “I am overwhelmed and humbled by the trust the City Council has placed in me as evidenced by their decision to appoint me the next Chief of Police. I am honored to lead the great people of the Susanville Police Department, and serve the citizens of our fine community. I am looking forward to serving you as your Chief of Police.”
Chief Downing’s career in law enforcement began in 1987 at the age of 17 when he served as an Explorer Scout for the City of Susanville.
During the early 1990’s Downing worked as a Correctional Officer with the Lassen County Sheriff’s office while at the same time serving as a Reserve Police Officer for the City of Susanville.
In May of 1994, Downing was appointed as a full time police officer and was promoted to Sergeant in March of 2001. He was promoted to the position of Captain in 2007 where he served under Police Chief Atkinson.
A press release issued by the City of Susanville notes that Chief Downing’s hard work and leadership abilities have been evident throughout his career. He has held positions as traffic officer, worked investigations, served on the narcotics task force and the SWAT team.
Downing also earned the honor of Police Officer of the year in 1994 and 1996, and served six years in the California Army National Guard.
A graduate of Lassen High school, Chief Downing earned his AA degree through Lassen Community College and a completed his bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice Management through Union Institute and University/Sacramento.
Chief Downing and his wife have four children and are active members of our community.
“Rising to the position of Chief of Police has been my aspiration since the age of seventeen,” says Chief Downing, “I am truly thankful to all of those who have supported me over the years. Without the assistance of others, I would not have achieved such a lofty goal.”
Chief Downing will be sworn in at a public ceremony to be announced later.
