KALAMAZOO, Mich. — Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety Chief Karianne Thomas will step down from her role at the end of the month, according to a news release Wednesday.
She will be leaving Sept. 30 after spending 27 years with the department.
Assistant Chief Vernon Coakley will take Thomas’ place.
Thomas was eligible for full retirement in 2017 and will receive a one-year severance package, per her contract.
“I’m truly honored to have served the Kalamazoo community and its amazing residents for 27 years,” Thomas said. “I am proud to have served as Kalamazoo’s first female chief and I am excited to pass the baton to Assistant Chief Coakley, who has the leadership skills and vision to take this department to the next level. I will truly miss the men and women who put it all on the line every day to keep our community safe.”
