The City of Lubbock has announced the appointment of Gregory Rushin, former Chief of the Plano Police Department, as the Interim Chief of the Lubbock Police Department. Rushin, who retired from the Plano Police Department, will take on the role until a new chief is selected.
Gregory Rushin is set to assume his duties as Interim Chief on September 22, with City Manager Jarrett Atkinson presenting his appointment to the Lubbock City Council for confirmation on September 26, 2023. The departure of former Police Chief Floyd Mitchell was formally announced on September 12. Mitchell had been leading the department since 2019.
The appointment of Rushin follows concerns that arose regarding the Lubbock Police Department's 911 dispatch center. In 2022, more than 30,000 911 calls in Lubbock went unanswered. During this period, the department had nine dispatchers per shift, but Mitchell reduced staffing to seven, citing staffing and budget constraints. In July of this year, the minimum staffing level was increased to eight.
Gregory Rushin brings over 40 years of law enforcement experience to his new role. He served the Plano Police Department for 35 years, including 18 as Plano Police Chief. Additionally, Rushin spent four years as an agent for the Federal Bureau of Investigation and held positions as a Deputy Sheriff and Sergeant in Illinois. He retired from the City of Plano as Deputy City Manager in 2021. Rushin holds Bachelor's and Master's Degrees, is a Certified Public Manager, previously served as President of the Texas Police Chiefs Association, and holds a license as a Texas Master Police Officer.
City Manager Jarrett Atkinson expressed his satisfaction with Rushin's appointment, stating, "I am pleased to have Gregory Rushin serve as our Interim Police Chief. His tremendous experience and proven track record will guide the Lubbock Police Department as we continue to move forward and honor our commitment to public safety."
