'Challenges are many' for Palmetto's new police chief (with video)

He has been in office less than two weeks, but Palmetto Police Chief Rick Wells is already making changes.

“That’s what got my attention. He hasn’t been there very long yet, but we’re seeing better patrolling,” said Palmetto City Commissioner Mary Lancaster, who lives down the street from where two men were gunned down last month. “We’re seeing more patrols and I’m getting calls from my constituents.

“I think we’re going to see a difference,” she predicted. “He assured me, ‘You’re probably going to get tired of seeing us.’ The only people that are going to get tired of seeing him are the criminals.”

There are high expectations for the 45-year-old chief, son of former longtime Manatee Sheriff Charlie Wells.

Since he was sworn in July 20, Wells has been working long days to learn what changes he needs to make in a department of 35 sworn officers.

He has taken over a department that has had issues with low morale, a high number of unsolved homicides and complaints about a lack of professionalism.

Garry Lowe hastily retired as chief from the department July 7 after he came under scrutiny for the unsolved homicides and thousands of dollars in unpaid delinquent personal property taxes. Lowe said he retired after “much thought and consideration,” and that he planned to spend more time with his family.

Wells is sensitive when it comes to taking over for a friend he has known since they were students at Manatee High School.

“Here’s what people don’t understand, I would never put in for this position if Garry was being pushed out,” Wells said. “I would not do that. I don’t want to be that guy. He’s been very good with the transition and helping me.”

Donning a crisp new police uniform, Wells outlined his priorities during an interview this week in his office. The walls are bare, nails still exposed. The only personal effect is the metal placard with his name and new rank.

Wells’ top concerns: cracking Palmetto’s seven open homicide cases, encouraging community-based patrol and shaping up the department with fitness requirements.

But his greatest challenge, Wells contends, will be coping with a tight city budget that has imposed a freeze on hiring new officers.

“I’m a very positive person. ... I feel I can do it,” he said. “But the budget’s going to be the biggest issue.”

Career hits fast track

Rick Wells has been on a fast track in law enforcement, holding numerous leadership positions, with many speculating he will someday be sheriff like his father.

He spent one year at the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office and left when his father was elected in 1985.

He went on to work for the Florida Highway Patrol, making the rank of sergeant during 21 years with the agency.

“I made that choice to leave and go work somewhere else because I didn’t want to fight that fight with my dad being there,” Wells said. “I knew right then.”