Raley promoted to deputy chief

Gallup police chief Sylvester Stanley and retiring deputy chief Ron Gonzales pin stars onto the collar of newly promoted deputy chief Don Raley during a brief ceremony Friday at the Gallup Municipal court. (Photo by Jeff Jones/Independent)

By Leslie Wood
Staff Writer

GALLUP — A 22-year law enforcement veteran was promoted to the position of Gallup Police Department deputy chief on Friday afternoon.

Family, friends and colleagues filled the municipal courtroom and allowed late-comers standing room only along the walls to watch Don Raley's promotion.

"Promotions and retirements are always a good thing," Chief Sylvester Stanley said to the crowd. "It's always tough to maintain the same kind of staff with the same integrity."

Retired Deputy Chief and Raley's predecessor Ron Gonzales pinned a new row of stars on Raley's uniform after the former captain recited his oath of office.

"Take care of the troops for me," Gonzales said.

Raley was quick to acknowledge those who have helped him reach his goals.

"I want to thank God for all the blessings in my life," Raley said. "All my accomplishments can only come to me through His blessings."

He also thanked his wife Brenda and his four children.

"I look forward to many happy tomorrow's here," he said.

Capt. John Allen also complimented Raley who he's worked with since May.

"Don has the highest level of integrity you can find in a man, not to mention a police officer. ... It's unparalleled," Allen said.

Raley graduated from Wayland Baptist University in Texas with a degree in criminal justice. His law enforcement career began in Grants where he served for more than a year before moving to Albuquerque where he remained for 20 years.

He said he moved to Gallup as a secondary career, following his retirement as a captain with the Bernallilo County's Sheriff's Department.

He said he also worked with Chief Stanley in Albuquerque, which helped him adapt to Gallup.

"It's always easier to move somewhere when you know someone," he said.