Reno Police Leadership Faces Shake-Up Amid Ongoing Investigation
In an unexpected turn of events, significant changes have been made within the Reno Police Department’s leadership. This comes two months after a high-profile investigation prompted city officials to place several department members, including the former chief, on paid leave.
City Manager Jackie Bryant has taken decisive action by terminating Chief Kathryn Nance, along with assistant chiefs Oliver Miller and Anthony Elges. In their place, Corey Solferino, previously serving as Washoe County Undersheriff, has been appointed as the new chief following his interim leadership. Bryant stated, “I want to acknowledge the broken trust between the leaders of the Reno Police Department and the community. Acting Chief Solferino and I know we have much work to do in this space, and we are both committed to doing it.”
The city had initially recruited Nance through a nationwide search in 2023, but this time, the process was expedited due to concerns over department morale during the probe. Bryant acknowledged prior issues with morale, indicating the need for swift action.
Details regarding the investigation remain sparse, although reports suggest potential misconduct related to professional standards within the department’s upper echelons. Legal restrictions prevent city officials from disclosing specifics, as Bryant explained, “I struggle with not being able to disclose everything. I am prohibited by law, because these individuals have rights, and protections, and due process.”
Solferino’s appointment as chief is contingent upon approval by the Reno City Council, which is scheduled to consider the matter on Wednesday, May 20. Meanwhile, three additional department members remain on administrative leave as the investigation continues.
