AKRON, Ohio — The city of Akron named Stephen L. Mylett as the city’s next chief of police following a nationwide search.

Mylett will be sworn in Aug. 9, the city said. Mylett will be leaving his current post as chief of police in Bellevue, Wash.

Mylett was among three finalists for the position. Joseph P. Sullivan, a recently retired deputy commissioner of the Philadelphia Police Department, and Christopher Davis, deputy chief of the Portland Police Bureau in Oregon, were also considered. A fourth finalist, Albany, N.Y. Police Chief Eric Hawkins withdrew from consideration last month. 

“While we had many strong candidates to be our next chief, Steve’s experience and approach to leadership emerged as the right fit at the right time,” Mayor Dan Horrigan wrote in a press release. “Steve is a demonstrated man of integrity, a successful leader of police personnel, and an engaged member of the communities he serves.  

“Steve understands the challenges that Akron faces to reduce violent crime and increase community trust. I have confidence that he will quickly earn the respect of both the department and the citizens of Akron, and I look forward to introducing him to our community, and each of Akron’s welcoming and diverse neighborhoods.”

Mylett has served as chief of Bellevue Police since 2015. Prior to that, he was the chief of police in Southlake, Texas. Mylett began his law enforcement career in 1989, according to a biography released by the city of Akron.

To lead the department of 447 officers, Mylett will be paid an annual salary of $144,788.80 with an added yearly bonus of $29,722.20.

“I am honored at the opportunity to serve the Akron community and the officers of the APD as your next chief of police,” Mylett wrote in a press release. “In the past month I have had the opportunity to visit this city and found Akron to be a welcoming community whose leaders truly care about those they have the privilege to serve. I am very happy to be joining the Akron team.”  

“My approach to this position will be centered on honest communication, procedural justice and building coalitions,” he added. “I look forward to engaging with the men and women of the Akron Police Department who I have admired from afar, and to meeting with stakeholders throughout the city to learn more about their priorities, concerns, fears and hopes for the future.”