Congratulating Chief Jerry Dyer on His Retirement

Floor Speech

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Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Chief Jerry Dyer on the occasion of his retirement from the Fresno Police Department after 40 years of service. Chief Dyer has dedicated his career to protecting the people of the Central Valley making our community a safer place.

Jerry Dyer was born and raised in Fresno, California and attended California State University, Fresno; receiving his bachelor's degree in Criminology. He later received his master's degree in Management from California Polytechnic University, Pomona and graduated from the California Command College for law enforcement leaders. He joined the Fresno Police Department in May of 1979.

Chief Dyer quickly rose within the ranks of the department. He served as a Police Specialist and SWAT team member, Patrol Sergeant for Southwest District and SWAT team supervisor. Other leadership roles included; Sergeant for the Patrol Narcotics Enforcement, Police Lieutenant in Central District, Captain of Southeast District and Skywatch Commander. In 1999, he was named Assistant Chief of Police before being named Chief of Police in 2001.

Chief Dyer and the Fresno Police Department have received a number of accolades during his tenure. In 2005, he was awarded the Excellence in Public Service Award that is sponsored by The Fresno Bee, The Fresno Business Council, and the Maddy Institute at the California State University, Fresno. His department became nationally accredited through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies. In 2008, Chief Dyer served as the president of the California Police Chief's Association. In 2011, at the California Police Chief's Conference, he was awarded the Joseph T. Molloy Award, for his commitment to mission of the organization. He was also named the 2nd Vice President of Major Cities Chief's Association, which represents large municipal departments throughout the country.

Chief Dyer built strong relationships with the community and citizens of Fresno to promote trust in police officers. He implemented reforms that were proposed by the Obama Administration's Task Force on 21st Century Policing and embraced the latest in policing technology to ensure his officers could properly and safely perform their duties.

Chief Dyer was active in the community throughout his career. He served on the boards of the Marjaree Mason Center and Breaking the Chains, worked with his church, spoke at community events, and participated in charity events. Through his career he has had the steadfast support of his wife Diane and their two children and grandchildren.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating him on his impressive law enforcement career. His contributions to the Central Valley over the past 40 years will be felt for many years to come. I wish he and his family continued health, happiness and prosperity in this new chapter.

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