The City of Reno has come under scrutiny following a recent town hall meeting that spotlighted significant concerns within the Reno Police Department (RPD). Amidst this backdrop, city officials are grappling with an internal investigation that has resulted in the suspension of Chief Kathryn Nance and five other department members.
During a press conference on March 12, Reno officials revealed that the Nevada Department of Public Safety is leading a probe into potential policy breaches within the RPD. However, details regarding the specific allegations or the identities of the officers involved remain undisclosed.
City Manager Jackie Bryant addressed the uncertainty surrounding the investigation’s timeline, stating her current priority is maintaining stability within the department. “The goal is to stabilize, to just kind of status quo. So, while I definitely think it’s important to continue to work with the community, that is not something that we have been focusing on right this minute,” she remarked.
In response to the leadership void, Washoe County Undersheriff Corey Solferino has been appointed as the acting chief. Solferino emphasized his commitment to ensuring public safety during this tumultuous period. “We want to make sure that when the public’s in need, that they feel comfortable enough to call, that we will answer that call. So, as we look to the days and weeks ahead, we will continue to do all of the great things that the Reno police department was already doing,” he stated.
The investigation’s launch follows a contentious town hall in February, where community members voiced concerns about the fatal shooting of Michael Johnson, a 27-year-old unhoused Black man, and allegations of sexual harassment within the department. These incidents have intensified scrutiny on the RPD and contributed to the current investigation.
