Neice appointed interim police chief in Pulaski

Lt. Jill Neice will serve as Pulaski’s interim police chief while the search for a new chief continues.

Town Manager Darlene Burcham made the announcement of her decision to appoint Neice at Tuesday evening’s meeting of Pulaski Town Council.

Burcham told council that Neice, a longtime member of the Pulaski Police Department who heads up the department’s patrol division, did not ask for the position.

“She told me she would do whatever is necessary for the best interest of the police department,” Burcham said. “It was on that basis that I thought she was the person who could ably serve us during this time while we are seeking someone to fill that role on a permanent basis.”

Neice takes over the reins of the department following the retirement of former chief Gary Roche. Roche retired effective June 1.

According to the Town of Pulaski, Neice has more than 23 years serving in various roles with the Pulaski Police Department.

Interim Chief Neice methodically worked her way up the career ladder. She started out as a Patrol Officer before accepting a role in the Investigations division. After serving for some time in Investigations, she received a promotion to become a Detective Sergeant. She finally settled in her previous role as Patrol Lieutenant, where she has served for six years before being selected as Interim Police Chief.

Interim Chief Neice graduated from New River Community College, with an Associate of Applied Science degree in Administration of Justice before attending Radford University and graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. Her entire career in law enforcement has been spent with the Pulaski Police Department, honing her skills and developing a strong rapport with her colleagues and community.

By MIKE WILLIAMS, The Patriot