On June 15, after nearly 38 years in law enforcement — including 36 years with the Lakewood Police Department, Police Chief Daniel McCasky announced his retirement.

McCasky began his law enforcement career in 1985 as a Patrol Deputy for the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office. In 1986 he made the decision to continue his career with the Lakewood Police Department. During his 36-year career with the Lakewood Police Department, McCasky has held line-level, supervisory and leadership positions in all three of the department’s divisions. After a nationwide search in 2016, McCasky was selected as the eighth police chief in the department’s history.

“I have been honored to serve the citizens of Lakewood for 36 years as a member of the Lakewood Police Department,” McCasky said. “The last 6 years have been an extremely humbling and gratifying experience to lead this incredible organization.  The men and women of the Lakewood Police Department epitomize integrity and dedication to service, that make this such a professional organization.”

Lakewood City Manager Kathy Hodgson said McCasky led the department with determination, confidence and distinction.

“It’s been an honor to work alongside Chief McCasky,” she said. “He’s guided us through an economic crisis and civil discourse while in the middle of a global pandemic. All the while, his leadership and professionalism have been unmatched. Chief has brought the Lakewood Police Department to new heights in community service through programs such as our Community Action Team and his focus on our older adults and aging properties in the city. Dan has left this department in a better place than when he took over as Chief six years ago. He will surely be missed.”

 McCasky’s last day with the Lakewood Police Department will be June 30, marking 36 years to the day from when he began his career with LPD. 

According to LPD Spokesman John Romero, an interim police chief will be named in the coming days.