JUNEAU – Governor Bill Walker Thursday named Walt Monegan the new Commissioner for the Department of Public Safety. Mr. Monegan will replace current DPS Commissioner Gary Folger, who will retire at the end of May to focus on his health. Commissioner Folger served the state for more than 30 years.

“I want to thank Commissioner Folger for his outstanding service to the State of Alaska and his leadership in the Department of Public Safety,” said Governor Walker. “Gary served 35 years as a fish and wildlife trooper, colonel of the Division of Alaska Wildlife Troopers, and Commissioner of the Department of Public Safety. For decades, he has worked to protect Alaskans. He has been an invaluable member of my cabinet.”

Mr. Monegan joins the Walker-Mallott administration with an extensive career in Alaska’s public safety and criminal justice sectors. Mr. Monegan began his career in public service as a member of the United States Marine Corps, and later as a volunteer firefighter and medic. He went on to serve more than 33 years with the Anchorage Police Department, including five years as Chief of Police from 2001 to 2006. Mr. Monegan previously served as the Commissioner of the Department of Public Safety from 2006 to 2008. He went on to be named President of the Alaska Native Justice Center, advocating for equality in Alaska’s justice system.

“Last year, I asked Walt Monegan to step in and help with the leadership transition at the Department of Corrections. As I said in January, this is not the last you will see of Walt Monegan in my administration. Walt exemplifies integrity and honor. His experience in public safety, combined with his dedication to Alaska and the criminal justice system, will make Walt an excellent addition to my team,” said Governor Walker. “While Commissioner Folger’s leadership and team spirit are irreplaceable, I have high hopes for the Department of Public Safety with Walt Monegan at the helm.”

Source: State of Alaska [xyz-ihs snippet=”Adsense-responsive”]

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