John Seto appointed interim police chief for Ann Arbor

By Cindy Heflin Associate news director

Posted on Thu, Mar 8, 2012 : 8:56 a.m.

Ann Arbor has appointed current Deputy Police Chief John Seto interim chief, the city announced Thursday.

Deputy Police Chief John Seto salutes, along with other officers, during a Sept. 11 memorial service in 2011.

Seto’s appointment follows Police Chief Barnett Jones’ announcement last month that he plans to retire at the end of March.

City Administrator Steve Powers will make a recommendation to City Council regarding the appointment of a permanent replacement for Jones at a later time, the city said in a press release.

Seto has worked for the Ann Arbor Police Department for more than 20 years, the city said, and has extensive patrol, detective, and management experience. As interim chief and safety services administrator, he will oversee both the police and fire departments.

Jones’ retirement is effective March 30.

“Barnett has tirelessly served the public in law enforcement for 38 years,” said Ann Arbor City Administrator Steve Powers. “While his retirement will be a loss to Ann Arbor, we wish him well in the future and are thankful for the valuable contributions he has made to the Ann Arbor community.”