The city of Sedona has hired Christopher Dowell as interim deputy chief, who will start work on Monday, Aug. 26, according to Sedona Communications Director Lauren Browne.
Dowell’s contract is for a term of 90 days. He will be assisting with procuring a new body-worn camera system, updating policies and procedures, overseeing the investigative unit and supervising the patrol and support services divisions, Browne stated.
His monthly salary in Sedona will be $9,765, equal to $29,295 over the 90-day period. Browne stated that his hiring is seen as a temporary measure at this time.
Dowell resigned as interim Cottonwood police chief on Sunday, Aug. 11, with an effective date of Saturday, Aug. 24. In his resignation letter, he stated, “It is with great sorrow that I announce my resignation from the city of Cottonwood after seven years of service to the community, the department and the city after seeing no path forward within the city leadership, effective Aug. 24 at midnight. I will remain on FMLA until Aug. 24 to recover my mental health situation. I do not wish to participate in an exit interview and choose for my last paycheck to be deposited via direct deposit.”
His Cottonwood salary was $60.08 per hour, according to his resignation letter.
Dowell will fill the post formerly occupied by SPD Deputy Chief Ryan Kwitkin, who was terminated by the city of Sedona on July 10.
Hired in May 2023, and formerly of Boca Raton, Fla., Kwitkin had filed a complaint against Sedona Police Chief Stephanie Foley alleging that she had created a hostile workplace. An outside investigation by Revolutionary HR Consulting, beginning on March 18 and concluding on May 23, interviewed 23 city employees. The consulting firm determined that the eight allegations made against Foley were “not substantiated;” however, the firm reported alleged misconduct by Kwitkin and recommended a second investigation into his actions.
Sedona Human Resources Director Russ Martin conducted the investigation into Kwitkin, interviewing 14 staffers regarding 13 allegations, 10 of which were substantiated, another of which was partially sustained and two of which were not substantiated. Kwitkin, who was still in his probationary period, declined to be interviewed to address the allegations, twice declined to attend a predetermination hearing after requesting one, and was subsequently terminated. Kwitkin has filed a notice of claim against the city of Sedona for wrongful termination, which was received by the city on Aug. 19.
