Reardan hires new police chief

REARDAN - Mikeal Suniga, a former sergeant for the Airway Heights Police Department, was hired as the town's new chief of police effective March 6.

He replaced Andy Manke, who resigned and accepted a job with the Spokane Tribal Police.

"Chief Manke developed a great organization here," Suniga said. "I will not make any major changes. I want to build on what he did and further develop the relationships he established."

Suniga started his career in law enforcement as a reserve officer in Medical Lake in 2002. Three years later, he was promoted to a full-time position.

In 2007 he accepted a position with the Airway Heights Police Department and remained there until taking over as police chief in Reardan.

Suniga also had a 21-year career with the Air National Guard while working as a police officer.

"I came to Reardan because I like its small-town atmosphere," Suniga said. "I want to bring to this community the experience I gained while working in a larger department. One of the first things I want to do is to understand the priorities of the business owners and to create a better quality of life in Reardan with the resources I have."

Suniga wants to continue Manke's "community-oriented" approach to policing and to do all that he can to "set the department up for success."

In his time away from work, he and his wife Molly enjoy camping, attending Spokane Chiefs games and spending time with their three dogs.

Having already visited four continents, he hopes to visit the remaining three in the coming years and plans one day to get his private pilot's license.

"This community has been very welcoming," Suniga said. "I have an open door policy and look forward to meeting the residents, answering their questions and solving their problems."

Mayor Gail Daniels will swear Suniga in as police chief at town council's regular meeting Thursday, March 16.