After a comprehensive nationwide search, the City of Rowlett has named Michael Denning as Chief of Police. A seasoned law enforcement professional with over 23 years of experience, including more than ten years in supervisory, management, and command positions, Chief Denning comes to Rowlett from Henderson, Nevada, where he most recently served as Deputy Police Chief. Henderson is the second largest city in Nevada with a population of over 350,000 residents and a police department with 480 sworn officers and 220 professional staff employees.
“Michael is an exceptional leader with a proven track record of accomplishments,” said City Manager Brian Funderburk. “His experience working with a broad range of stakeholders to provide exemplary public safety services will serve the Rowlett community well.”
Chief Denning is an innovative police leader with a clear understanding of policing diverse communities in the 21st century and addressing the challenges of policing in a rapidly growing community. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Nevada Las Vegas and is a graduate of the Police Executive Research Forum’s Senior Management Institute for Police (Class #75). Additionally, Michael is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Organizational Leadership at National University. During his 23 years of law enforcement experience he has advanced through the ranks, serving in, and providing supervisory oversight for many divisions including the Investigations Division, Operational Support Division (SWAT, K9, and Traffic), Training and Community Division (police academy, in-service training, recruitment and backgrounds, and community relations), 911 Dispatch Center, Criminalistics Laboratory, Police Records, and Animal Control and Services. He also served as a Patrol Commander, Training and Academy Commander, SWAT/CNT, and K9 Unit Commander.
“I am honored to serve the Rowlett community and the men and women of the Rowlett Police Department,” said Chief Denning. “I look forward to engaging a wide variety of stakeholders and working collaboratively with the department to implement nationally recognized best practices, reduce the crime rate, and enhance the safety and quality of life for our residents and visitors.”
