Allen Police Chief Brian Harvey announces retirement

After 12 years of strong dedicated leadership, Allen Police Chief Brian Harvey is announcing his retirement effective February 1, 2024. Chief Harvey was sworn into office on February 7, 2012, as Allen's fifth Chief of Police. Prior to his position with Allen, he retired as a Deputy Chief of Police with the Dallas Police Department with 32 years of law enforcement experience.

"We have been fortunate to have Chief Harvey's stable leadership and strategic guidance over the continued growth of the police department for more than a decade," said City Manager Eric Ellwanger.

Chief Harvey said, "It has been my privilege to serve this great community and the fine men and women of the Allen Police Department."

Under Chief Harvey's leadership, the police department has deployed several new technologies to create efficiency in crime investigation and reporting. He has enhanced community outreach and transparency. Chief Harvey also implemented new police recruitment initiatives, expanded the School Resource Officer program and mental health training and resources for the police department.

In addition, Chief Harvey has facilitated two major bond-funded projects which included a partnership with Collin College for the police firearms training center approved in the 2016 bond election. This partnership resulted in saving Allen taxpayers $3.3 million from the estimated cost of a police training facility.

During the past year, he has been active in identifying workspace needs and working through the design phase for the new APD Headquarters approved by voters in the recent bond election and expected to begin construction next year.

Ellwanger said, "It's difficult to summarize all the accomplishments of the Chief's tenure with Allen. What really speaks volumes about his leadership are the relationships he has built within the organization, the community and our region that have positioned Allen to be connected and ready to respond to any threat that might occur. That was never more evident than on May 6 and the weeks that followed."

Chief Harvey stated, "I am extremely proud of the bravery and courage of the responding officers that saved lives on May 6."

"Advance discussions with Chief Harvey regarding his intentions to retire early 2024, provided us with an opportunity to find the right replacement for a seamless transition," said Ellwanger.

The City of Allen was able to recruit Steve Dye for the Allen Chief of Police position. Dye, who recently retired as the Grand Prairie city manager, also served as that city's police chief from 2011 to 2020, and as a deputy city manager. Dye was seeking to return to law enforcement to add to his 35 years of experience which includes positions with Houston, Arlington, Garland, and Colleyville, Texas.

Ellwanger said, "We are fortunate to have another seasoned veteran step into this critical leadership role and continue to build upon the great police department Chief Harvey will leave behind."