New chief

Continue drug enforcement efforts and build morale.

Communicate with the public and create more community events.

These are some of the ideas Dustin Mock, Portland’s new chief of police, has in mind moving forward.

“I don’t know if we have any specific goals — we’re just trying to build this foundation right now,” said Mock. “We get a good foundation and build upon that.”

Following Mayor Jeff Westlake’s announcement at the Jan. 2 Portland City Council meeting about new appointments to head the city’s police and street and parks departments, Mock and assistant chief Donnie Miller stepped into their new positions.

Mock is the fourth police chief hired for the city since December 2020 when former chief Nathan Springer retired after six years in the role. Springer was replaced with Josh Stephenson, who resigned in July 2021.

Mitch Sutton took over for Stephenson but stepped down after 14 months because of health problems. Steve Schlechty first filled in as interim chief and was then named chief, heading the department until January. (Schlechty is no longer working for Portland police, having retired and then returned as a civilian to serve as assistant chief under Sutton.)

Miller, the assistant chief, has been with the department for two years. Formerly a sergeant, he assumes the position from Michael Brewster.

Addressing previous administration, Mock said he thinks the department has taken a positive direction in recent years. Hopes are to grow from here.

“I think we’re on a positive track, we just need to expand on that and really concentrate,” he said.

A 1999 Jay County High School graduate and Portland resident, Mock worked in a few other professions before pursuing police work, including at the former dog food factory in Portland. He joined the department in 2004 as a reserve officer. A year later, he came on board full-time as a patrolman. Mock also served as a sergeant for about five years before shifting back to patrol a few years ago in order to work the day shift.

Although he’s worked for the department for nearly 20 years, Mock’s family history dates back farther. His grandfather, Raymond Mock, served 30 years on the force, with eight years as chief of police.

“I always heard the stories, they always intrigued me,” recalled Mock. “It’s kind of something I always had in my mind that I’d like to do when I was older.”

A positive relationship with the public, as well as between employees, is something Mock values. He hopes to foster more trust as time goes on.

“I would just like to see more positivity within the department and throughout the community when it comes to police,” Mock said, referring to a negative perception of police throughout the country. “I’d like to at least locally build that positive perception.”

Mock also would like to incorporate more involvement in the community, such as events crafted for Portland residents. 

With little over a week as chief, Mock is still getting a handle on the job and formulating plans. Moving ahead, he said, the department plans to prioritize safety, foster trust and uphold integrity and professionalism.

“I am committed to open communication and collaboration with the community as we work together to build a safer and stronger city for all,” said Mock in a text message.