New Benton Township Police Chief Greg Abrams now has his right-hand man.
Officer Blake McKinney was appointed Benton Township Deputy Chief during the regular township meeting Tuesday.
McKinney and Abrams previously worked together at the Benton Harbor Police Department, and came to Benton Township at the same time, according to Abrams.
“As a detective, I saw him work many hours tirelessly to get work done because he cares so much about the community,” Abrams said. “He’s always had my back. He’s smart, he’s intuitive. He’s connected. … He’s my best fit as a deputy chief because I know he will help me get this program moving.”
McKinney addressed the board after their approval of his appointment.
“I just want to thank the township board as well as chief Abrams for giving me the opportunity,” McKinney said. “We have a lot of idead that we want to implement with the department that will not only benefit the citizens, but benefit the business sector as well. I’m anxious to see within the next two years how much we can progress.”
Abrams was elected police chief by the board in December, and took over duties on Jan. 1. Some of his priorities include focusing on the opioid epidemic, gun violence in the community, engaging with the community and creating a better environment for officers.
On Tuesday, Abrams said the department has already had some additional interest from potential officers.
“I’ve hit the ground running, and my feet are still hurting,” Abrams said. “I think that says a lot about the direction we’re going. … Rome wasn’t built in a day, but it was built. I just need some time and support of the board to get things going and make a difference in the township. I’m sure I can do that along with officer McKinney being my deputy chief.”
Pictured: McKinney, left, and Abrams, right.
By Ryan Yuenger
ryany@wsjm.com
