City Of Prineville Appoints Shane Wilson As Chief Of Police (Photo) - 06/24/26

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

City of Prineville Appoints Shane Wilson as Chief of Police

(PRINEVILLE, Ore.) — The City of Prineville has appointed Shane Wilson as its next Police Chief.

Wilson has served in interim leadership roles within the Prineville Police Department, overseeing department operations and day-to-day services to the community. 

Wilson joined the Prineville Police Department in 2015. During his tenure, he has served as a police officer, sergeant, detective sergeant, lieutenant, captain, and interim chief. Prior to joining the department, he began his law enforcement career in Southern Oregon as a reserve officer and police officer with the City of Talent.

In addition to his supervisory and leadership responsibilities, Wilson has served as a field training officer, training coordinator, drug recognition expert, background investigator, reserve officer program coordinator, and instructor for the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST). He has also completed SWAT school and holds a DPSST management certification.

“Since joining the department in 2015, Shane has served in a variety of roles and taken on increasing leadership responsibilities," said City Manager Steve Forrester. "He understands our community and has demonstrated the experience and leadership needed to lead the department."

"It’s a privilege to serve our community," Wilson said. "I look forward to continuing to work alongside our officers and staff as we support and respond to the needs of Prineville.”

Wilson's appointment is effective July 1, 2026.

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About the City of Prineville:

Located east of the Cascade mountains in Oregon’s high desert, the City of Prineville is a resurgent rural community that has preserved its small-town, ranching roots and Western lifestyle while embracing smart growth in a business-friendly environment. With a population of just over 11,900 residents, the county seat of Crook County attracts a diversity of business and lifestyle interests, including tech giants Meta and Apple, recreational enthusiasts, and a thriving agricultural industry. Incorporated in 1880, City of Prineville operates the oldest continuously running municipal short line railway in the U.S., as well as a public golf course. Prineville boasts numerous recreational assets, including the Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River, and remains a popular destination for anglers and hunters. For more information on City services and programs visit cityofprineville.com.