The Clarksville Police Department is ringing in changes at the top, according to a recent announcement detailing the promotion of three key officers to high-ranking positions. In a stride that solidifies the leadership within the CPD, Captains Scott Thornton, Liane Wilson, and Daniel Lane have advanced to Deputy Chiefs of their respective divisions – Operations, Special Operations, and Administration.
Taking the helm of the Operations Division, Capt. Scott Thornton steps into a role that oversees the efforts across three districts ensuring round-the-clock patrol services and crime investigations. Thornton, a CPD veteran who has been with the department since 1994, shared a slice of his journey with the City of Clarksville official website, "I went back to school on Monday, switched my major, and thirty years later, I wouldn’t have wanted to do anything else with my life." Capt. Thornton balances his dedication to law enforcement with his family life and the outdoor pursuits of hunting, and, fishing, and running.
Capt. Liane Wilson's advancement marks a historic moment for CPD as she stands as the first woman, and first African-American to occupy a high-ranking position in the department's history. Heading the Special Operations Division, Wilson will oversee units such as Homicide, Special Victims, and Drug, among others. Capt. Wilson told the City of Clarksville official website, "I look forward to this next chapter in my career and my new role in continuing to build trust between the Police Department and the community we serve." Her promotion signifies not only a career milestone but also a step towards greater diversity within the department's leadership.
With the eligible retirement of Deputy Chief Richard Stalder, Capt. Daniel Lane is set to take over the Administration Division in June. In this capacity, he will be responsible for the backbone of CPD's support and financial operations, from Records Management to Emergency Communications. In a department that heralds professional growth, Lane's rise from patrol officer to commander of the Administrative Division encapsulates a narrative of dedication to public service. "It is a privilege to help lead the Clarksville Police Department as we serve the citizens of our great city," Lane expressed, according to statements shared on the City of Clarksville official website.
Police Chief Charles “Ty” Burdine and Clarksville Mayor Joe Pitts have both expressed confidence in these newly minted Deputy Chiefs. Chief Burdine celebrated their professionalism and commitment to both the department and the Clarksville community. Mayor Pitts lauded the promotions as a recognition of superior performance, cementing a strong leadership team to support the CPD's mission of safety.
