John Ortolano submitted his resignation as the City of Hobbs Police Chief to the Hobbs City Manager Manny Gomez on Wednesday, December 8. Chief Ortolano’s resignation is effective January 8, 2022. The chief has served the City of Hobbs for a little more than two (2) years.
To ensure and solidify a smooth transition for the health and consistency of the Hobbs Police Department (HPD) as well as for the community, HPD Deputy Chief August Fons has been appointed Acting/Interim Police Chief. Deputy Chief Fons assumed his new role as acting interim/chief on Monday, December 13.
In a City of Hobbs press release (PDF), dated Monday, December 13, the city expresses, on behalf of the community, its appreciation for Chief Ortolano’s service. “The City of Hobbs is thankful to Mr. Ortolano for his time in the position along with his overall time in public service and law enforcement,” states the press release.
According to the press release, the City of Hobbs is focused on providing unparalleled service in all departments for the benefit of the city’s employees and the public alike. City Manager Gomez is quick to confirm this goal and insure that the current momentum of both the city and the police department will push onward.
Gomez said, “Today marks a clear opportunity for the City of Hobbs and the Hobbs Police Department (HPD) to carry the current momentum forward and focus on identifying the ways in which we can improve the services we provide to the residents of Hobbs. HPD is poised to forge ahead. I firmly believe the department is headed in the right direction, and my hat goes off to the men and women that continue to suit up day after day and willingly put our citizens’ safety before their own. I have long believed that a culture of excellence transcends any one person, myself included. It is my goal to continue to foster and improve the culture of excellence that exists at the City of Hobbs.”
An exhaustive search will be conducted for a new police chief for the City of Hobbs. A posting for the position will be forthcoming.
