(Stillwater, OK) – Stillwater Police Department will officially have a new Chief of Police beginning April 28, when Christopher Hassig, current Captain for the Houston Police Department, will take the helm after a comprehensive, nationwide search was conducted.
“This was a collaborative process with City leadership, community stakeholders, and members of the police department. Stillwater Police Department personnel exhibit professionalism and expertise daily and we are excited about the leadership and experience that Chief Hassig will bring to the City of Stillwater,” Deputy City Manager Christy Driskel said. “I look forward to working with Hassig and introducing him across the organization and community.”
Chief Hassig is focused on improved communication with external and internal stakeholders, boosting transparency, strong community relationships and improved officer morale while driving down crimes.
“I am honored to be chosen as the Chief of Police for the Stillwater Police Department. The men and women that form the organization have built a firm foundation and I am excited to lead and grow such an amazing agency. I look forward to elevating an already strong culture, nurturing area relationships, and becoming a pillar of the Stillwater community. I am grateful for this opportunity and look forward to what lies ahead for the Stillwater Police Department, the community, and my family.”
Hassig has more than 18 years of experience with Houston Police, the nation’s fifth largest police department, leading as Captain of Police, managing more than 160 personnel, and serving in a leadership role at a department of nearly 6,000.
Areas under his current purview include citywide management of all murder, kidnapping, missing person, and officer-involved shooting investigations, as well as the Special Investigations Unit, and review of all Homicide Division reports, and internal affairs discipline. He has served as frontline supervisor in patrol, administrative, and investigative positions.
“Chief Hassig was chosen following a comprehensive selection process. Members of the Stillwater Police Department and community stakeholders were very impressed with Hassig’s experience, leadership style and genuine desire to serve this department and the Stillwater community,” City Manager Brady Moore said. “I share in their excitement and look forward to his leadership in this organization.”
Throughout Hassig’s professional career, he co-led department initiatives to improve internal communications for greater consistency in messaging and to promote transparency, while also leading disciplinary reform to improve accountability.
Hassig shared that he believes presence, partnerships, and professionalism are key tenets to organization and community health. For Houston Police, he collaborated or led multiple community events including Shop with a Cop, Juneteenth, Father’s Day Community Bike Ride, annual “State of the Station” community meeting, and many other events. He also volunteered as a coach for youth basketball and little league programs.
“The Stillwater Police Department is comprised of professional men and women serving this community in a number of ways every day” Driskel said. “They exhibit leadership, professionalism, care and connection, and we look forward to Chief Hassig joining the Stillwater Police Department and advancing the department even more.”
