Pinal Today

The Casa Grande Police Department (CGPD) revealed that a new deputy chief, lieutenant, and sergeant were recently appointed. 

"Some of you may have heard me say that there are two ceremonies I do believe wholeheartedly that people remember in our profession," Mark McCrory, CGPD chief, said, according to Casa Grande Dispatch. "One is the day they graduate and the other one is when they get promoted."

McCrory promoted Brian Ramirez to deputy chief, Robert Price to lieutenant, and Richard Rush to sergeant at a ceremony on Sept. 6, Casa Grande Dispatch reported.

"It's always fun to watch new graduates starting out on a new career, but to me, I really enjoy the promotional part of our profession because it really shows the accomplishments of individuals through their hard work, their effort, and their willingness to commit themselves to their chosen profession," McCrory said.

Rush, one of the promoted officers, spoke at the event as well.

"I just flew from back east yesterday, so I’m tired, but I appreciate it," he said. "Thank you, everybody, for showing up. Thank you."

Price aimed his comments at his family.

"Thanks for putting up with me," he said. "Thank you all."

Ramirez said he was humbled by the promotion, according to Casa Grande Dispatch.

"Thank you, Chief, for the confidence in this promotion; I appreciate it," he said. "I never thought that I would make it as an officer. When I got out of the Marine Corps, I thought if I can make $30,000 and become a cop, life was good. I'm fortunate to work for an organization that just has given me all this opportunity and didn't hold me back when I made mistakes.

"I've had several held me back a little bit, but not too long. It’s just a great organization and these stars, to me, represent the people that I've worked with. You guys have risen me up, so thank you very much."