Alaska State Troopers announce two promotions after deputy commissioner retires

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) – Gov. Mike Dunleavy and Division of Public Security Commissioner James Cockrell introduced two management modifications on Aug. 31, after Deputy Commissioner Leon Morgan introduced his retirement after 25 years of state service. Captain Maurice “Mo” Hughes was promoted to Colonel of the Alaska State Troopers whereas Bryan Barlow took over Morgan’s function as Deputy Commissioner.

Col. Hughes is perhaps new to the title, however he definitely isn’t new to the Alaska State Troopers having served over 32 years throughout the state. Hughes is a Coast Guard veteran and has served in communities throughout Alaska together with Kodiak, Delta Junction, and Soldotna.

“I’ve type of traveled round throughout my time within the Coast Guard, ended up wanting to return to Alaska,” Hughes mentioned. “Bought right here, by no means wished to go away, so I’ve been right here since then.”

The promotion is historic for the Alaska Division of Public Security as Hughes is the primary African-American to carry the rank of colonel since its inception. He mentioned he was honored to be requested to tackle the place and counseled the division on its range.

“I feel it speaks volumes to the division,” Hughes mentioned. “I feel it speaks volumes to the variety throughout the division and I’m proud to be right here.”

In response to Hughes, 36 African-Individuals have labored for the division since its institution, with 11 nonetheless at present energetic.

“Of these 11, I feel we’ve two sergeants, two lieutenants, and I feel two captains and myself,” Hughes acknowledged.

The management modifications went into impact Sept. 1. As Hughes will get settled into the brand new function he needs to work on addressing necessary points throughout the division, similar to murdered and lacking Indigenous peoples and body-worn cameras.

“As I step into these items, my aim is simply to attempt to assist push these issues ahead and preserve them transferring progressively ahead,” Hughes mentioned. “I’m working with (the command employees) from a distinct perspective now, however I’d wish to get in, see how issues are going, see what I may help with.”

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