Cd'A police chief finalists named

The search for Coeur d'Alene's next police chief has been narrowed to two candidates.

Gary R. Jensen, chief of police in Logan, Utah, and Lee R. White, assistant police chief in Mesa, Ariz. are the finalists, according to a city press release issued Thursday.

"I'm very pleased that we have two highly qualified individuals who are eager to continue their careers in Coeur d'Alene," said Mayor Steve Widmyer, in a prepared statement. "I believe either of these experienced law enforcement officers would do a great job leading our police department."

During his 21-year police career, White has worked in or supervised nearly every area of police work, making his way through the ranks of the Mesa Police Department from patrol officer to assistant chief.

He currently oversees the department's $157 million budget and is responsible for members of the investigations bureau. He holds a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from Arizona State University and a master's degree in educational leadership from Northern Arizona University.

"My experience and leadership style continually demonstrate an exceptional combination of effective crime-fighting programs, accountability, strong community-based programs and high employee morale," White wrote on his application.

Jensen began his career in law enforcement in 1987 as a deputy sheriff in Utah. As chief of police in Logan, he is responsible for budgets totaling more than $10 million and oversees a department of 116 people.

Jensen said he has initiated several programs centered in community and police professionalism. He earned bachelor's and master's degrees in criminal justice from Weber State University.

"I am conservative with budget and expenditures but realize the importance of planning as it relates to training, purchasing, inventory and equipment management," Jensen wrote on his application.

Plans are to have White and Jensen travel to Coeur d'Alene later this month for interviews. There will also be an opportunity for the community to meet the candidates. The city hopes to have the position filled in September.