Cornelia police chief retires to run emergency facility

CORNELIA - After 10 years, Cornelia Police Chief Rick Darby has retired.<br /> <br /> City Manager Donald Anderson made the announcement Monday afternoon.<br /> <br /> Contacted late Monday, Darby referred to a prepared statement in which he said he has enjoyed the past decade leading the city's police department.<br /> <br /> "During that time, I have done my best to be fair, consistent and keep the community's best interest at heart," Darby's statement reads. "My career spans over 36 years. During these years I worked through ranks and accomplished my goals. I will complete my law enforcement career on a high note. My goal is to always leave it better than I found it. With the help of the City of Cornelia and a very dedicated staff, we were able to do that."<br /> <br /> In late December, Darby and his wife Debbie recently established an emergency facility in Banks County. After a preview event in late May, the temporary shelter for children in crisis is set to open soon.<br /> <br /> "My retirement begins immediately in order to begin the next exciting chapter in my life," Darby's statement reads. "My wife and I will run and operate the first emergency foster care facility in Georgia. We intend to duplicate the model throughout the state. The Samuel House in Banks County will open very soon. The new facility will help the children find hope. We have children from birth to 12 years of age, for up to 30 days."<br /> <br /> Darby acknowledged the community, supporting services and agencies, city manager, mayor and city commission for their support during his tenure.<br /> <br /> "Although this time is bittersweet, I know God has big plans for years to come," Darby's statement reads.<br /> <br /> Anderson said Assistant Chief Chad Smith has been named interim chief while the search for a new police chief begins.<br /> <br /> "The City of Cornelia is very thankful to Chief Darby for his many years of service and wishes him the best of luck with his future endeavors," Anderson said.

http://accesswdun.com/article/2014/6/275891