Massey Named Watonga Chief of Police

Watonga's recently named new police chief certainly is no stranger to law enforcement.

Beth Massey was selected as the city's new police chief and she began her new duties on Aug. 12, she said.

'I worked in law enforcement for 23 years and retired in 2007 as Assistant Police Chief of the Watonga Police Department,' Massey stated.

Massey stepped away from law enforcement serving as a counselor for six years. 'I have a master’s degree in Education and Counseling,' she noted.

'In 2013, I went to work for the Blaine County Sheriff's Office for eight years as the jail administrator. Last year, I worked as a Department of Human Services Child Welfare Specialist II in the Child Protection Services Division.'

When asked what drew her to the position as Watonga's Police Chief, she said, 'They had posted it online and I had seen it, applied and was named the chief.'

Massey said currently there are only four full-time officers and two part-timers who are reserves. 'We have openings for two more fulltime officers. That's what we are budgeted for right now,' she added.

She emphasized, 'My focus is trying to get a couple of more officers. That's what I'd like to have,' she said. Massey explained, 'I'm a community-oriented person. I'd like to regain the trust of the people in the community. And I'd like to get some more training for our officers.

'I think training is important,' she stated. Massey pointed out, 'I want the community to know our doors are open and I enjoy visiting with people.'