After 12 years of leadership, Allen Police Chief Brian Harvey announced his retirement effective February 1, 2024.
On Feb. 7, 2012, Chief Harvey took the oath of office, becoming the fifth Chief of Police in Allen. Before assuming this role, he concluded a 32-year career in law enforcement, retiring as Deputy Chief of Police from the Dallas Police Department.
“It has been my privilege to serve this great community and the fine men and women of the Allen Police Department,” Harvey said.
Under Chief Harvey, the police department implemented various technologies to enhance efficiency in crime investigation and reporting. He also elevated community outreach efforts, emphasizing transparency. Chief Harvey spearheaded innovative police recruitment initiatives, expanded the School Resource Officer program, and bolstered mental health training and resources within the department.
Chief Harvey also played a pivotal role in overseeing two significant bond-funded projects. This included a collaboration with Collin College for the police firearms training center, a project approved in the 2016 bond election. This collaboration resulted in substantial savings of $3.3 million for Allen taxpayers compared to the estimated cost of an independent police training facility.
Harvey served as chief when the Allen Premium Outlets shooting claimed eight lives on May 6, 2023.
“It’s difficult to summarize all the accomplishments of the Chief’s tenure with Allen,” City Manager Eric Ellwanger said. “What really speaks volumes about his leadership are the relationships he has built within the organization, the community and our region that have positioned Allen to be connected and ready to respond to any threat that might occur. That was never more evident than on May 6 and the weeks that followed.”
The City of Allen recruited Steve Dye as the next chief of police. Dye, who recently concluded his tenure as Grand Prairie city manager, boasts an extensive career, having served as the police chief in Grand Prairie from 2011 to 2020. With a desire to re-enter law enforcement, Dye aims to contribute to his 35 years of diverse experience, including roles in Houston, Arlington, Garland and Colleyville.
“We are fortunate to have another seasoned veteran step into this critical leadership role and continue to build upon the great police department Chief Harvey will leave behind,” Ellwanger said.
