Sedona Welcomes Back Former Cottonwood Police Chief Chris Dowell for Interim Role

The city of Sedona has appointed Christopher Dowell as interim deputy police chief, effective August 26, as confirmed by Sedona Communications Director Lauren Browne.

Dowell’s contract spans 90 days, during which he will focus on several key responsibilities. These include procuring a new body-worn camera system, updating departmental policies, overseeing the investigative unit, and supervising patrol and support services divisions.

His monthly salary will be $9,765, totaling $29,295 for the duration of his interim role. Browne noted that this hiring serves as a temporary solution while the city seeks a permanent deputy chief.

Prior to his new role, Dowell resigned from his position as interim police chief in Cottonwood, effective August 24. In his resignation letter, he expressed regret about leaving after seven years of service, citing a lack of advancement opportunities within city leadership. Dowell referenced taking time off for his mental health and requested that his final paycheck be issued via direct deposit.

In Cottonwood, Dowell earned $60.08 per hour at the time of his departure.

Dowell steps in for Ryan Kwitkin, who was terminated from the Sedona Police Department on July 10. Hired in May 2023 from Boca Raton, Kwitkin had lodged a complaint against Sedona Police Chief Stephanie Foley for alleged workplace hostility.

An external investigation conducted by Revolutionary HR Consulting found no substantiation for the claims against Foley after interviewing 23 city employees. However, the firm uncovered alleged misconduct by Kwitkin, prompting a recommendation for further investigation.

Sedona Human Resources Director Russ Martin subsequently led an inquiry into Kwitkin, interviewing 14 staff members about 13 allegations. Of these, 10 were substantiated, one was partially sustained, and two were unsubstantiated. Kwitkin, still within his probationary period, declined interviews and failed to attend a predetermination hearing, leading to his termination.

Following his dismissal, Kwitkin filed a notice of claim against the city for wrongful termination, received on August 19.

In his previous role, Dowell served Cottonwood for six years, following a tenure with the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Army. He was appointed interim police chief in Cottonwood after former chief Steve Gesell was placed on administrative leave in September amid an investigation into his conduct.

Gesell was ultimately terminated on September 14, with an investigation report finding multiple violations of city policies, including insubordination and discourteous behavior toward colleagues.

Additionally, a lawsuit was filed on April 3 by Tempe lawyer Kimberly Eckert on behalf of Gesell against multiple Cottonwood officials, including the city manager and mayor. Following these events, both City Attorney Jennifer Winkler and City Manager Scotty Douglass exited their positions after alleging harassment by city council members in January.